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During Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, along with Balabhadra and Subhadra, travels from Puri temple to Gundicha Temple. The 12-day journey holds deep spiritual significance
The yatra lasts for 12 days, with each day holding special spiritual significance. (News18 Hindi)
Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the ‘Puri Festival of Chariots’, is one of the most revered and grand festivals in the Hindu religion. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, the event is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. People from all over the world come to witness the grand incarnation of Lord Vishnu with great reverence and enthusiasm.
This year, the journey begins on Friday, June 27, and will continue until July 8. Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, travels from the main temple of Puri to the Gundicha Temple on grand chariots. The yatra lasts for 12 days, with each day holding special spiritual significance.
Beginning Of The Rath Yatra
According to Bhopal-based astrologer and Vastu consultant Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, the yatra begins on Friday on the second day (Dwitiya Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. As per the Hindu Panchang, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga occurs from 5:25 am to 7:22 am, followed by Pushya Nakshatra. The most auspicious moment of the day, Abhijit Muhurat, falls between 11:56 am and 12:52 pm, the time when the Lord’s chariot procession officially begins.
Rituals On The First Day
One of the most iconic rituals is Chhera Panhara, performed by the King of Puri. In a gesture of humility and service, he sweeps the area beneath the chariot with a golden broom. Another notable event is Hera Panchami, when Goddess Lakshmi visits the Gundicha Temple and expresses her displeasure at Lord Jagannath for leaving her behind, adding a dramatic touch to the festival.
Name Of Ropes
Interestingly, even the ropes used to pull the chariots are named. Lord Jagannath’s 16-wheeled chariot is called Nandighosh, and its rope is named Shankhachuda Nadi. Balabhadra’s 14-wheeled chariot is Taladhwaj, with the rope called Basuki. Subhadra’s 12-wheeled chariot is Darpadalan, and its rope is Swarnachuda Nadi. Touching these ropes is considered highly auspicious.
Who Can Pull The Chariots?
One of the most special aspects of the Rath Yatra is its inclusivity. People from all religions, castes, and countries are welcome to pull the chariots. The only requirement is a pure heart filled with devotion. It is believed that pulling the chariot can help one break free from the cycle of life and death, moving towards salvation.
However, no individual is allowed to pull for too long, ensuring that all devotees have a chance. Even simply participating with sincere devotion is said to be as virtuous as performing a thousand sacred rituals (yagnas).
How Did the Rath Yatra Begin?
According to the Skanda Purana, one day Subhadra expressed a desire to see the city. To fulfil her wish, Jagannath and Balabhadra placed her on a chariot and took her on a tour, including a visit to their aunt’s home, the Gundicha Temple, where they stayed for seven days. This event marked the beginning of the tradition, which continues to this day.
Structure of The Chariots
Each deity rides in a different chariot, each uniquely structured:
- Lord Jagannath’s chariot (Nandighosh): 45 feet high, 16 wheels
- Balabhadra’s chariot (Taladhwaj): 43 feet high, 14 wheels
- Subhadra’s chariot (Darpadalan): 42 feet high, 12 wheels
All chariots are built using specific types of sacred wood, and new ones are constructed every year. The chariots are pulled from the main temple to the Gundicha Temple using thick ropes, a tradition believed to bring peace and happiness to one’s life.
Lord Krishna’s Heart
A fascinating belief associated with Lord Jagannath is that his idol contains the heart of Lord Krishna, which, according to legend, did not burn after his death. It is said this sacred heart appeared as a piece of wood on the seashore and was discovered by King Indradyumna of Odisha in a dream. This wood was then installed inside the idol, where it remains to this day.
Why Is The Idol Changed Every 12 Years?
The idol of Lord Jagannath is made from Neem wood and is replaced every 12 years in a ritual called ‘Navakalevar‘. However, the inner wooden core, believed to be Lord Krishna’s heart, is never changed. During the replacement, the entire city’s electricity is turned off. The priest changes the idol while blindfolded, with cloth wrapped around his hands, so he neither sees nor touches the sacred core directly. It is said that anyone who sees this divine wood faces instant death.
The Rath Yatra is believed to relieve participants from the burden of past karmas and bring peace of mind. It is said that taking part in this divine journey grants the same spiritual merit as performing a hundred yagnas.
- Location :
Puri, India, India
- First Published: