Puri Rath Yatra - History, Significance, Rituals and Celebrations

The city of Puri, located in the eastern state of Odisha, India, comes alive every year with the vibrant and grand celebration of the Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots. This ancient festival, which has been celebrated for centuries, is one of the most significant and anticipated events in the Hindu calendar. It attracts millions of devotees from across the globe who come to witness the divine journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra.

Historical Significance and Origins

The origins of the Rath Yatra can be traced back to ancient scriptures and legends.
The most widely accepted legend is that Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Krishna, once expressed his desire to visit his birthplace, Mathura. To fulfill his wish, the deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out of their temple in a grand procession to their garden palace in the countryside, known as the Gundicha Temple.

This journey symbolizes their annual visit to their aunt’s home, and the festival is a reenactment of this divine journey. The Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and Padma Purana mention the significance of this journey and its impact on the devotees who participate in it.

The Chariots: Symbols of Devotion and Craftsmanship

The construction of the three chariots is a monumental task that begins well in advance of the festival. Each chariot is built anew every year from specific types of wood, such as phassi, dhausa, and specific species of neem trees. The chariots are enormous, intricately designed, and richly decorated, reflecting the grandeur of the deities they carry.

Nandighosha: Lord Jagannath's Chariot

The chariot of Lord Jagannath, known as Nandighosha, stands at approximately 45.6 feet tall and is mounted on 16 wheels, each 6.5 feet in diameter. It is decorated with a yellow and red canopy and numerous other embellishments. The charioteer for Nandighosha is Daruka, and the divine guardian is Garuda.

Taladhwaja: Lord Balabhadra's Chariot

Taladhwaja, the chariot of Lord Balabhadra, is about 45 feet high and is mounted on 14 wheels, each 7 feet in diameter. This chariot is adorned with a green and red canopy. The charioteer is Matali, and the divine guardian is Vasudeva.

Darpadalana: Devi Subhadra's Chariot

The chariot of Devi Subhadra, called Darpadalana, stands at around 44.6 feet and has 12 wheels, each 6.8 feet in diameter. It is decorated with a black and red canopy. The charioteer is Arjuna, and the divine guardian is Jayadurga.

Rituals and Celebrations

The Rath Yatra is a culmination of several rituals that begin well in advance of the main event. These rituals are steeped in tradition and devotion, each holding a special significance.

Snana Purnima: The Sacred Bathing Ceremony

The festivities begin with the Snana Purnima, which occurs on the full moon day of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha. On this day, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are brought out and given a ceremonial bath with 108 pitchers of water drawn from the Suna Kua (Golden Well). This ritual is believed to purify the deities and prepare them for the grand procession.

Anasara: The Period of Rest

Following the Snana Purnima, the deities are said to fall ill due to the extensive bathing and are kept in isolation for a period known as Anasara. During these two weeks, the deities are not visible to the public. This period is symbolic of their recuperation before the grand journey.

The Rath Yatra: The Grand Procession

On the day of the Rath Yatra, the atmosphere in Puri is electric with excitement and devotion. The deities are brought out in a grand procession known as Pahandi, where they are carried from the Jagannath Temple to their respective chariots amidst the chanting of hymns and the beating of drums. This procession is a spectacular sight, with devotees singing, dancing, and pulling the chariots with immense fervor.

The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees using thick ropes. It is believed that pulling the chariots is a way to earn divine blessings and purify oneself of sins. The journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple is approximately 3 kilometers long and takes several hours to complete.

Chera Pahara: The Ritual of Sweeping

One of the most significant rituals of the Rath Yatra is the Chera Pahara. This ritual is performed by the Gajapati King of Puri, who sweeps the chariots with a golden broom and sprinkles sandalwood water. This act symbolizes humility and the king's devotion to Lord Jagannath, emphasizing that everyone is equal in the eyes of the Lord.

The Stay at Gundicha Temple

Upon reaching the Gundicha Temple, the deities stay there for a period of seven days. This stay symbolizes their visit to their aunt’s home. During this period, devotees flock to the temple to offer their prayers and seek blessings.

Bahuda Yatra: The Return Journey

After the seven-day stay, the deities embark on their return journey to the Jagannath Temple, known as the Bahuda Yatra. This return journey is equally grand and is marked by the same fervor and devotion as the initial procession. On the way back, the chariots stop at the Mausi Maa Temple, where the deities are offered Poda Pitha, a special type of pancake that is considered Lord Jagannath’s favorite.

Suna Besha: The Golden Attire

On the day following their return to the Jagannath Temple, the deities are adorned with gold ornaments in a ritual known as Suna Besha. This grand spectacle attracts a massive crowd as the deities appear resplendent in their golden attire, symbolizing their divine royalty.

Niladri Bijay: The Final Ceremony

The Rath Yatra concludes with the Niladri Bijay, where the deities are ceremoniously returned to the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple. This marks the end of the grand festival, leaving the devotees with a sense of fulfillment and divine blessings.

Cultural and Spiritual Significance

The Rath Yatra is not just a religious festival; it is a celebration of culture, unity, and spirituality. It brings together people from different walks of life, transcending social and economic barriers. The festival embodies the principles of equality and fraternity, as seen in the Chera Pahara ritual performed by the king.

For the devotees, the Rath Yatra is an opportunity to connect with the divine. Pulling the chariots, offering prayers, and participating in the rituals are acts of devotion that bring them closer to Lord Jagannath. The festival is also a reminder of the ephemeral nature of life and the importance of humility and service.

Global Attraction and Influence

The grandeur and significance of the Rath Yatra have transcended geographical boundaries. Today, similar chariot festivals are celebrated in various parts of the world, especially in countries with significant Indian diasporas. Cities like London, New York, and Sydney witness grand Rath Yatra processions, where people of different cultures and backgrounds come together to celebrate the spirit of the festival.

The influence of the Rath Yatra on art, literature, and culture is profound. It has inspired numerous literary works, paintings, and sculptures. The festival also plays a crucial role in promoting tourism in Odisha, attracting thousands of visitors who come to experience the rich cultural heritage and spiritual vibrancy of Puri.

Conclusion

The Rath Yatra of Puri is a grand celebration of devotion, culture, and spirituality. It is a festival that unites people, transcending barriers and fostering a sense of community. The magnificent chariots, the sacred rituals, and the fervent devotion of the devotees create an atmosphere of divine bliss that is unparalleled. If you're looking to experience this incredible festival firsthand, consider booking a Puri Rath Yatra Tour Package to ensure a memorable and immersive journey into this sacred tradition.

For those who participate in the Rath Yatra, it is not just a festival but a deeply spiritual journey that leaves an indelible mark on their hearts. The divine journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra is a testament to the timeless traditions and rich cultural heritage of India. As the chariots roll through the streets of Puri, they carry with them the hopes, prayers, and unwavering devotion of millions, creating a spectacle of faith and spirituality that continues to inspire and captivate the world.