Rath Yatra is a major festival ce
lebrated in Puri, Odisha. This annual event features the procession of chariots carrying the deities Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra. Devotees from all over the world come to witness and take part in the chariot-pulling ritual.
This year’s Rath Yatra was particularly special as it was attended by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. She performed a ‘parikrama’ (circumambulation) of the three chariots and bowed before the deities, seeking their blessings. Her presence emphasized the importance of this ancient festival.
Rath Yatra marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, about three kilometers away. The deities travel in three large wooden chariots, each uniquely decorated. These chariots are pulled by devotees, who see it as a great honor and a way to earn spiritual merit.
Preparations for Rath Yatra begin months in advance. Carpenters, artists, and craftsmen work hard to build and decorate the chariots. Each chariot is different in design and symbolism. Lord Jagannath’s chariot, Nandighosa, is the largest and is decorated with red and yellow fabric. Lord Balabhadra’s chariot, Taladhwaja, has red and green fabric, and Goddess Subhadra’s chariot, Darpadalana, is adorned with red and black cloth. The construction follows ancient rituals and specifications to preserve the tradition.
On the day of Rath Yatra, the streets of Puri are filled with thousands of devotees. The atmosphere is lively with chants of “Jai Jagannath” and the sounds of drums and cymbals. Devotees believe that pulling the chariots grants them divine blessings and washes away their sins.
The procession begins with the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri ceremonially sweeping the chariots, a tradition called Chhera Pahanra, symbolizing equality before the divine. After this, the deities are brought out of the temple in a grand procession called Pahandi Bije. Amidst the sound of conch shells and the cheers of devotees, the deities are placed on their chariots.
As the chariots start their journey to the Gundicha Temple, the enthusiasm of the devotees peaks. The sight of the massive chariots being pulled by thousands of devotees is awe-inspiring. The journey is slow, with frequent stops along the way. Devotees offer prayers, flowers, and coconuts to the deities, seeking blessings.
President Droupadi Murmu’s participation added a special touch to this year’s Rath Yatra. Her act of performing the ‘parikrama’ and bowing before the deities was a moment of deep spiritual significance. It also showed the inclusive nature of the festival, which brings people together in a celebration of faith and devotion.
The Rath Yatra lasts for nine days. During this time, the deities stay at the Gundicha Temple. On the ninth day, known as Bahuda Yatra, the deities make their return journey to the Jagannath Temple, marking the end of the festival. Rath Yatra is not just a religious event but also a vibrant expression of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and the deep devotion of Lord Jagannath’s followers.