The Car Festival of Lord Jagannath

Rath Yatra: The Grand Chariot Festival of Puri

The Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, is one of the most significant Hindu festivals, celebrated with grandeur in Puri, Odisha. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, to the Gundicha Temple in elaborately decorated chariots.

Key Aspects of the Rath Yatra

The Deities

The festival revolves around the three revered deities:
Lord Jagannath – An incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the presiding deity of the Puri temple.
Lord Balabhadra – The elder brother of Jagannath, representing strength.
Goddess Subhadra – Their sister, embodying divine compassion.

The Magnificent Chariots

Each deity is carried in a grand, specially crafted chariot:
Nandighosha – Lord Jagannath’s chariot, 45 feet high, with 16 wheels.
Taladhwaja – Lord Balabhadra’s chariot, 44 feet high, with 14 wheels.
Darpadalana (Devadalana) – Goddess Subhadra’s chariot, 43 feet high, with 12 wheels.

The Rituals

Each deity is carried in a grand, specially crafted chariot:
Pahandi – The Grand Procession The deities are ceremonially carried from the Jagannath Temple to their chariots in a unique swaying motion, known as Pahandi, amidst the chanting of hymns and beats of traditional instruments.
Chhera Pahanra – The Royal Service Before the journey begins, the Gajapati King of Puri, considered the foremost servant of Lord Jagannath, sweeps the chariot floors with a golden broom, symbolizing humility and devotion.

The Journey to Gundicha Temple

The chariots travel 3 kilometers to the Gundicha Temple, believed to be the birthplace of Lord Jagannath. The deities remain there for seven days before making their return journey, known as Bahuda Yatra.

Timing & Significance

The festival takes place on the second day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha (June–July).
Rath Yatra is a symbol of unity, devotion, and the bond between the divine and devotees, attracting millions of pilgrims from across the world.

The Rath Yatra is more than just a festival—it is a spiritual spectacle of faith, tradition, and devotion, deeply rooted in India’s cultural heritage.