Mumbai: The Jagannath Rath Yatra/ Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra/ Ratha Jatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most revered and significant Hindu festivals. Celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha, this vibrant event attracts millions of devotees and tourists globally. The festival features a grand procession where Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and his sister Subhadra are ceremonially transported from their temple to another shrine.
The three colossal 18-wheeled chariots, carrying the sibling deities, navigate through massive crowds, with millions gathering to witness this extraordinary event. This unique aspect makes it a visually stunning event that attracts a global audience.
Rath Yatra 2024: Date and significance
It is renowned as the oldest and largest Hindu chariot festival which takes place on the Dwitiya Tithi, the second day of the bright fortnight of Sharad Paksha, during the Hindu lunar month of Asadh, which usually falls in June or July in the Gregorian calendar. The festival revolves around Lord Jagannath, considered a form of Vishnu or Krishna.
In 2024, Ratha Yatra is scheduled for July 7, with the Dwitiya Tithi beginning at 4:26 am on July 7 and ending at 4:59 am on July 8.
The festival features elaborately decorated chariots and a grand procession through the streets, symbolising the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Subhadra to their aunt’s Gundicha Temple. They stay there for a week before returning to the Jagannath Temple in a procession known as the Bahuda Yatra.
This grand event involves colossal chariots carrying the revered deities and is filled with energy and devotion. The rhythmic chanting of hymns, the fervent pulling of chariots by devotees, and the sheer scale of the event create an unforgettable experience.
The festival begins with intricate rituals such as Rath Snana (the ceremonial bathing of the deities), Rath Pratistha (the consecration of the chariots), and the Rath Yatra (the chariot procession) where devotees pull the chariots while chanting hymns. The deities stay at Gundicha Temple for nine days, blessing the devotees, and then return during the Bahuda Yatra. The festival concludes with Niladri Vijaya, where the chariots are dismantled, symbolising the completion and renewal of the divine journey.
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Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2024 is set to take place on July 7. This vibrant festival, celebrated with immense enthusiasm, attracts millions of devotees and tourists from around the world. Explore our guide for date details, festive wishes, WhatsApp statuses, creative drawings, and posters to celebrate this grand event. Events Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips