How Jagannath Rath Yatra is Celebrated in Puri: Traditions, Rituals & Significance

How Jagannath Rath Yatra is Celebrated in Puri

Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most grand and sacred Hindu festivals celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha. This vibrant and spiritually uplifting event is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. The Rath Yatra is a spectacle of devotion, tradition, and culture that draws millions of pilgrims and tourists from across the world.

In this article, let’s explore how the Rath Yatra in Puri is celebrated, its spiritual significance, and why it’s one of the most important festivals in India.

What is Jagannath Rath Yatra?

Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots, is the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple—located about 3 km away in Puri. This procession is symbolic of a divine visit to their maternal aunt’s home.

• Celebrated on: Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of Ashadha Shukla Paksha (June–July)

• Location: Puri, Odisha

• Main deities: Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra

How Jagannath Rath Yatra is Celebrated in Puri

1. Snana Purnima – The Grand Bathing Festival

The preparations begin with Snana Yatra, held on the full moon day of Jyestha month. The idols are bathed with 108 pots of sacred water, which is believed to purify the universe.

2. Anasara – The Recuperation Period

After Snana Purnima, the deities fall "ill" and are kept in seclusion for 15 days. This period is known as Anasara, during which the idols are not visible to devotees.

3. Netrotsav and Nabajouban Darshan

A day before Rath Yatra, the deities reappear to the public in a rejuvenated form. This is called Netrotsav (Festival of Eyes) or Nabajouban Darshan (New Youth Appearance).

4. The Main Day – Rath Yatra Begins

On the main day, the idols are brought out of the Jagannath Temple in a grand procession called Pahandi Bije. They are carried to their respective chariots amidst chants of "Jai Jagannath" and sounds of drums, conch shells, and cymbals.

🛕 The Three Chariots:

• Nandighosa – for Lord Jagannath (16 wheels)

• Taladhwaja – for Lord Balabhadra (14 wheels)

• Darpadalan – for Goddess Subhadra (12 wheels)

These massive wooden chariots are specially built every year from neem trees and are decorated with colorful fabrics, carvings, and canopies.

5. Pulling the Chariots

Millions of devotees pull the gigantic chariots with thick ropes in a procession to the Gundicha Temple. It is believed that pulling the chariot grants spiritual blessings and washes away sins.

6. Stay at Gundicha Temple

The deities stay at Gundicha Temple for nine days, symbolizing their stay at their aunt’s home. During this time, various rituals and bhog (offerings) are performed.

7. Bahuda Yatra – The Return Journey

After nine days, the return journey to Jagannath Temple is called Bahuda Yatra. The deities are again placed in their respective chariots and brought back with equal enthusiasm.

8. Suna Besha – The Golden Attire

On their return, the deities are adorned with gold ornaments in a ceremony called Suna Besha (Golden Dress), which attracts thousands of visitors.

9. Niladri Bije – Reentry into the Temple

The final ritual is Niladri Bije, when the deities re-enter the sanctum sanctorum of the temple. A humorous ritual is performed where Lord Jagannath must offer Rasgulla to Goddess Laxmi, who was left behind, to enter the temple.

Spiritual Significance of Rath Yatra

• Symbolizes the journey of the soul towards liberation.

• Represents equality and unity, as people of all castes and creeds participate in pulling the chariots.

• A rare occasion when the deities come out of the sanctum to bless all devotees, including those who cannot enter the temple.

Why Visit Puri During Rath Yatra?

• Witness one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.

• Experience ancient rituals, spiritual chanting, and cultural vibrance.

• Explore Puri's beaches, temples, and Odisha’s unique heritage.

• Capture stunning visuals of ornate chariots and decorated streets.

The Jagannath Rath Yatra in Puri is not just a religious event—it’s a spiritual experience that transcends barriers of language, region, and religion. Whether you are a devotee or a traveler, witnessing this grand celebration is truly a once-in-a-lifetime event.