The coastal city of Puri in Odisha is all set to host the annual Rath Yatra festival, which will see hundreds of traditional carpenters and painters bring the three huge chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Singha Dwara of Puri Srimandir. The security arrangements have also been beefed up with the deployment of 180 platoons of forces and special operations groups to ensure the smooth and safe conduct of the festival. The President of India is also expected to attend the festival.
The Sacred Rath Yatra of Odisha's Puri Temple: A Journey of Devotion and Tradition
The coastal city of Puri in Odisha, India, is renowned for its annual Rath Yatra festival, a grand celebration that attracts millions of devotees from across the globe. This festival commemorates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from their abode in the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
Historical Roots
The origins of Rath Yatra can be traced back to ancient scriptures such as the Mahabharata and the Skanda Purana. According to legend, Lord Krishna longed to visit his birthplace, Mathura. Upon learning this, his elder brother, Lord Balarama, built three chariots for Krishna, his wife Rukmini, and his sister Subhadra to undertake the journey.
The Chariot Construction
The construction of the three chariots is a remarkable spectacle in itself. Hundreds of traditional carpenters and painters work tirelessly for months to create the massive wooden structures. Each chariot is elaborately adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and sacred symbols.
The Grand Procession
The Rath Yatra begins with a grand procession that involves the movement of the three chariots from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The chariots are pulled along by thousands of devotees who chant hymns and devotional songs. The procession is accompanied by traditional music, dance, and fireworks.
Legend of the Chariot Wheels
As the chariots make their way through the streets of Puri, it is believed that the wheels of Lord Jagannath's chariot sometimes crush the devotees who prostrate before them. This is considered an auspicious sign and is known as "Chhera Panhara" (wheel crushing).
Top 5 FAQs
1. When is Rath Yatra celebrated? Rath Yatra is typically held in June or July, coinciding with the Ashadha month of the Hindu calendar.
2. How long does Rath Yatra last? The festival lasts for nine days. The first day is the procession to the Gundicha Temple, and the ninth day is the return journey to the Jagannath Temple.
3. Who attends Rath Yatra? Millions of devotees from around the world attend Rath Yatra, including the President of India and various dignitaries.
4. What are the security measures in place? Security arrangements are beefed up during Rath Yatra, with the deployment of police and special operations groups to ensure the safety of devotees.
5. What are the past incidents related to Rath Yatra? In 2016, a stampede occurred during Rath Yatra, resulting in the deaths of several devotees. However, such incidents are rare, and the festival is generally celebrated peacefully.
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