New Delhi: Jagannath Yatra, also known as Rath Yatra, is a major Hindu festival associated with Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Krishna, in the Indian state of Odisha. This grand chariot festival takes place annually in the city of Puri and attracts millions of devotees and tourists from across the world. The devotees wait eagerly every year for the Rath Yatra to take place and they participate with all the enthusiasm and happiness to celebrate the big event.
The Rath Yatra (Jagannath Rath Yatra 2024) this year will begin on the second day of Shukla Paksha of Ashadh month July 7, 2024, in which a huge crowd of devotees will participate. It is said that those who become a part of this holy journey attain salvation. Along with this, one gets rid of lust, anger and greed and attains happiness and satisfaction to live a simple, healthy life.
Why are Jagannath idols replaced every 12 years?
There are many stories related to Lord Jagannath and the idols placed in the temple, one of the most fascinating and surprising stories of the idols is that they are replaced every 12 or 19 years in the Dham for this reason. This ritual is known as ‘Navakalevara’. Navakalevara means – new body.
Under this tradition, the wooden idols of Shri Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshan in the Jagannath temple are replaced every 12 years. This practice ensures that the idols remain intact and undamaged, as the wood can deteriorate over time. Replacing them maintains their sanctity and physical condition, preserving the ritual and spiritual essence of the temple.
What is Navakalevara?
Navakalevara is a unique and ancient ritual associated with the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, where the wooden idols of the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Sudarshan are replaced with new ones. This significant event occurs periodically, generally every 8, 11, 12 to 19 years, based on specific astrological calculations. This tradition reflects the deep cultural and spiritual heritage of Odisha and the enduring devotion to Lord Jagannath.
Special neem trees, known as Daru Brahma, are selected for carving the new idols. These trees must meet specific sacred criteria and are identified through a detailed search led by temple priests and carpenters. Skilled artisans, known as Maharana and Biswakarma, carve the new idols in a sacred space within the temple complex. The entire process is conducted with utmost secrecy and reverence.
Navakalevara is a profound ritual that underscores the cyclical nature of life and death, renewal, and continuity in Hindu philosophy. It is a testament to the enduring faith and cultural richness of the Jagannath cult, drawing devotees into a deeply spiritual experience.
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2024: Check to know the reason and tradition which leades of changing of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra idols every few years, know all about this fascinating tradition. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
