Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most significant and grand festivals celebrated in India, particularly in the eastern state of Odisha. This festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra to their aunt’s home, known as the Gundicha Temple. The festival usually falls in the month of June or July, and the dates vary according to the Hindu calendar. In 2023, Jagannath Rath Yatra is scheduled to take place on Monday, 3rd July.
Significance of Jagannath Rath Yatra
Jagannath Rath Yatra is a significant festival celebrated every year in the Hindu month of Ashadh. The festival marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra from their temple in Puri to their aunt’s place at Gundicha Temple, a few kilometers away.
The Rath Yatra has immense cultural and religious significance. It is believed that Lord Jagannath visits his aunt’s house to meet his devotees and bless them with happiness, prosperity, and good health. The Rath Yatra festival symbolizes the bond of love between Lord Jagannath and his devotees, who pull the chariots through the streets with great devotion.
The festival is also significant for people who believe in the power of Lord Jagannath to fulfill their wishes. According to mythology, taking part in the Rath Yatra and pulling the chariot is believed to purify one’s soul and bring blessings from Lord Jagannath.
The Rath Yatra festival also has historical significance. It is said that the festival started during the reign of King Kapilendra Deb in the 15th century when the temple was under attack. The king moved the idols to a secret location and then returned them to the temple through a grand procession. Since then, the Rath Yatra has been celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion.
Dates and Rituals
The festival spans over a period of nine days, starting from the day of Dwitiya and culminating with the Bahuda Yatra, which marks the return journey of the deities to the Jagannath Temple. The dates for Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023 are from 19th June 2023 to 27th June 2023.
The festival is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm all across the country, especially in Odisha and neighbouring states. It is believed that pulling the chariot of Lord Jagannath during the Rath Yatra is considered a pious act and helps one attain salvation.
FAQs
Q. What is Jagannath Rath Yatra?
Ans. Jagannath Rath Yatra is an annual Hindu festival that celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Subhadra from their temple in Puri to the Gundicha temple, about 2.5 miles away.
Q. When is Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023?
Ans. Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023 is on Tuesday, July 4th.
Q. Where does the Jagannath Rath Yatra take place?
Ans. The Jagannath Rath Yatra takes place in Puri, a city located in the eastern state of Odisha, India.
Q. What is the significance of Jagannath Rath Yatra?
Ans. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is believed to be an auspicious occasion where devotees have the opportunity to seek blessings from Lord Jagannath and his siblings. It is also seen as a symbol of unity, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate the festival.
Q. What are the rituals associated with Jagannath Rath Yatra?
Ans. The main ritual associated with the Jagannath Rath Yatra is the procession of the chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees, who believe that taking part in the procession will bring them good fortune. Additionally, devotees also participate in other rituals such as offering prayers, singing bhajans, and distributing prasad.
Q. How long does Jagannath Rath Yatra last?
Ans. The festival of Jagannath Rath Yatra typically lasts for around nine days. The chariot procession takes place on the second day of the festival and is followed by various other rituals and festivities.
Q. Can anyone participate in Jagannath Rath Yatra?
Ans. Yes, anyone is welcome to participate in the Jagannath Rath Yatra. It is believed that taking part in the procession is a way to seek blessings from Lord Jagannath and bring good fortune to oneself and one’s family.