The grand Rath Yatra festival in Puri saw a surge of enthusiastic devotees as the pulling of chariots of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra resumed on the second day after a brief pause. Despite the halt overnight, devotees flocked to witness the deities on their majestic chariots, displaying their deep devotion and emotions. This unique festival is a nine-day celebration where the deities of Puri Srimandir come out of the temple to give darshan to devotees on Bada Danda.
Jagannath Puri's Grand Rath Yatra
Background
Jagannath Puri is a coastal city in the Indian state of Odisha, known for its iconic Rath Yatra festival. The festival commemorates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and sister Devi Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
The tradition of Rath Yatra has existed for centuries, with its origins traced back to ancient Hindu texts. The festival symbolizes the deities' desire to visit their aunt's house in the Gundicha Temple, which represents the bond between family members.
The Rath Yatra is a grand spectacle that draws लाखों of devotees from across India and the world. Three massive chariots, each elaborately decorated and representing the respective deity, are pulled through the streets of Puri by enthusiastic devotees.
Current and Past Events
2022 Rath Yatra
This year, the Rath Yatra was held from July 1 to July 9. The festival's resumption on the second day after a brief pause was met with great enthusiasm. Devotees from all walks of life flocked to Puri to witness the majestic procession, despite the overnight halt.
Past Rath Yatras
In 2020 and 2021, the Rath Yatra was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival was held with strict protocols and limited public participation. However, in previous years, the Rath Yatra has attracted enormous crowds, with millions of devotees participating in the pulling of the chariots.
Top 5 FAQs
1. What is the significance of the Rath Yatra?
The Rath Yatra represents the deities' annual visit to their aunt's house, symbolizing the bond between family members. It is also seen as a celebration of the unity and diversity of India.
2. How long does the Rath Yatra last?
The Rath Yatra is a nine-day festival. The chariots are pulled to the Gundicha Temple on the first day and return to the Jagannath Temple on the ninth day.
3. What are the chariots used in the Rath Yatra?
The three chariots used in the Rath Yatra are named Nandighosha (for Lord Jagannath), Taladhwaja (for Lord Balabhadra), and Darpadalana (for Devi Subhadra). Each chariot is a massive structure, elaborately decorated with intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures.
4. Who is responsible for pulling the chariots?
The chariots are traditionally pulled by devotees, who believe that it brings them good luck and blessings. However, in recent years, the use of mechanical assistance has also been employed to ensure the safety of the devotees.
5. What is the significance of the return journey of the chariots?
The return journey of the chariots on the ninth day of the Rath Yatra symbolizes the deities' return to their abode in the Jagannath Temple. It is believed that this journey removes all obstacles and brings peace and prosperity.
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