Rath Yatra: Jagannath Chariot Festival
Rath Yatra is one of India's oldest and grandest festivals, celebrated at Puri, Odisha, and in temples worldwide. Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra ride three magnificent wooden chariots down the Grand Road (Bada Danda) to Gundicha Temple every year in the month of Ashadha.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Rath Yatra celebrated?
Rath Yatra is celebrated on Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya, the second day of the bright fortnight in the month of Ashadha (June-July). It is an annual festival, so the date changes each year by the Gregorian calendar.
Where is the most famous Rath Yatra?
The most famous Rath Yatra is at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. It has been continuously celebrated for thousands of years. The festival is also called the Chariot Festival or Rathayatra and has inspired ISKCON chariot festivals worldwide.
What are the three Rath Yatra chariots called?
The three chariots are: Nandighosa (for Lord Jagannath, 16 wheels), Taladhwaja (for Lord Balabhadra, 14 wheels), and Darpadalana or Devadalana (for Goddess Subhadra, 12 wheels). Each chariot is newly built every year using specific sacred wood.
What happens during Bahuda Yatra?
Bahuda Yatra is the return chariot procession, held 9 days after the main Rath Yatra. The deities return to their Jagannath Temple from the Gundicha Temple (representing Vrindavan) in the same grand chariots.
Who can attend Rath Yatra?
Unlike the Jagannath Temple where non-Hindus are typically not permitted, Rath Yatra is open to all, regardless of religion, nationality, or caste. This makes it one of India's most inclusive religious events.
What is Chhera Pahanra in Rath Yatra?
Chhera Pahanra is the royal sweeping ceremony where the Gajapati King of Puri sweeps the chariot with a golden broom as an act of humility, signifying that in Lord Jagannath's presence, all are equal.
What is the 'Snana Purnima' connection to Rath Yatra?
Snana Purnima (Bathing Festival) falls exactly 15 days before Rath Yatra on Jyeshtha Purnima. On this day, the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are ceremonially bathed with 108 pots of sacred water. The deities then fall 'sick' (Anasar period) and are kept in seclusion for 15 days until they are brought out for Rath Yatra, representing divine rejuvenation.
Is Rath Yatra related to ISKCON?
Yes, ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness) has popularized Rath Yatra globally. ISKCON organizes Rath Yatra festivals in cities across the world, including London (the largest outside India), New York, Sydney, and many Indian cities. The Hare Krishna movement's Rath Yatra festivals welcome people of all backgrounds.
How are the Rath Yatra chariots built?
The three chariots are rebuilt fresh every year using specific sacred trees (primarily Phasi and Dhausa wood). The construction takes months, beginning after Akshaya Tritiya. Expert carpenters use traditional techniques with no metal nails. The chariot heights range from 43-45 feet. After the festival, the wood is considered too sacred for ordinary use and is ritually disposed of.