Ratha Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a grand and sacred Hindu celebration primarily associated with Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu/Krishna. The festival is most famously observed in Puri, Odisha, though it is celebrated in many parts of India and abroad by devotees of Lord Jagannath.
🌟 Significance of Ratha Yatra
Ratha Yatra marks the annual ceremonial journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple — their aunt’s house — located about 3 km away. After a stay of seven days, the deities return in a similar procession called Bahuda Yatra.
🙏 Ratha Yatra Puja Rituals
- Snana Purnima (Bathing Ceremony): The deities are bathed with 108 pots of sacred water, after which they enter a brief period of rest (Anavasara).
- Netrotsava (Divine Vision): On the day before Ratha Yatra, devotees get the first glimpse of the deities after their rest period.
- Chariot Procession: On the main day, beautifully crafted and colorfully decorated wooden chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees using thick ropes. Each deity has a specific chariot:
- Nandighosha for Lord Jagannath
- Taladhwaja for Lord Balabhadra
- Darpadalana for Goddess Subhadra
- Bhajans & Kirtans: The procession is accompanied by devotional songs, drumming, dancing, and chanting of “Jai Jagannath!”
🌼 Spiritual Importance
Participating in or even witnessing the Ratha Yatra is considered highly auspicious. It is believed that pulling the chariot cleanses one of all sins and grants blessings. The festival symbolizes Lord Jagannath’s love and compassion for all devotees, as He comes out of the temple to meet them.
