The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra stands as one of the oldest and largest religious festivals in the world. Each year, it commemorates the journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, from the Puri Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The Yatra spans nine days, during which the deities remain at Gundicha Temple before returning to Puri. This year, the Yatra will begin on June 27, drawing millions of devotees from across the globe.
Three Chariots for Three Deities
Each deity -Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra have their own distinct chariot for the journey.
New Chariots Every Year
The chariots are rebuilt each year, starting on Akshaya Tritiya. Skilled artisans carefully follow traditional designs during the construction.
200 Artisans Involved
More than 200 artisans work together for two months, using over 1,000 logs of wood to create the chariots.
Canopy Construction
The chariots are draped with canopies made of 1,200 meters of cloth. A team of 15 tailors sews these massive coverings.
King Sweeps the Road
Before the Yatra starts, the King of Puri sweeps the road with a golden broom. This symbolic act purifies the path for the deities.
Ropes of Coconut Fiber
Devotees use ropes made of thick coconut fiber to pull the chariots. These ropes measure 8 inches in diameter and are vital for the Yatra.
Jagannath’s ‘Poda Pitha’
Lord Jagannath will not return to Puri without receiving a special dish called “poda pitha” at the Gundicha Temple. This tradition is vital to the Yatra’s completion.
Lord Chaitanya’s Participation
The revered Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu actively participated in the Rath Yatra with Sankirtan (chanting) and dancing, adding divine joy to the occasion.
Spiritual Liberation
Witnessing the deities during the Rath Yatra is believed to grant freedom from the cycle of rebirth. The Shastras say: “rathe ca vamanam drstva punar janma na vidyate.”
Historical Connection with Jesus Christ
The Aquarian Gospel mentions that Lord Jesus Christ also witnessed the Rath Yatra over 2,000 years ago during his time in Puri.
The Largest Religious Festival
With over 10 lakh devotees attending every year, the Puri Rath Yatra is the world’s largest annual religious festival.
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The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is more than just a religious event. It is a celebration of faith, tradition, and spiritual liberation. Rooted in centuries-old rituals, the Yatra brings together millions of people in devotion, unity, and hope. As the Yatra begins on June 27, it continues to inspire and transform lives. Witnessing the procession is believed to free one from rebirth, making the event not only grand but deeply significant.
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