The Divine Journey of Lord Jagannath
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of India's most magnificent and spiritually significant festivals, held annually in the holy city of Puri, Odisha. This ancient celebration sees millions of devotees gather to witness the divine journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, as they travel from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
Known as the "Festival of Chariots," this spectacular event transforms the streets of Puri into a sea of devotion, colors, and celebration. The three magnificent wooden chariots, each uniquely decorated and towering several stories high, carry the deities on their sacred journey, symbolizing their annual visit to their aunt's home.
Nandighosha (Jagannath's chariot) - 45 feet high with 16 wheels, Taladhwaja (Balabhadra's chariot) - 44 feet high with 14 wheels, and Darpadalana (Subhadra's chariot) - 43 feet high with 12 wheels.
Traditional Odissi dance, devotional music, and cultural programs that showcase the rich heritage of Odisha throughout the festival period.
Sacred food offerings prepared in the temple kitchen and distributed to millions of devotees, considered one of the most blessed prasad in Hinduism.
It is believed that merely seeing the deities during the Rath Yatra grants liberation (moksha) and fulfills all desires of the devotees.
The grand procession begins with the pulling of chariots from Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple, accompanied by millions of devotees chanting "Jai Jagannath!"
The deities stay at Gundicha Temple for seven days, during which special rituals and offerings are performed daily.
The return journey begins with great enthusiasm as the chariots are pulled back to the main temple.
The deities are adorned with golden ornaments and can be viewed by devotees on the chariots before returning inside the temple.
Experience the spiritual magnificence of Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025. Witness centuries of tradition, devotion, and cultural heritage come alive in the holy city of Puri.
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