Jagannath Rath Yatra
Date
Location
In this year 2023, the Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath will be celebrate with great pomp. Rath Yatra is a Hindu festival associate with Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. Which is happen at Sri Kshetra Puri Dham. Which you will get to see in the eastern part of Odisha. This yatra is also call for ‘Ghosa Jatra’. Rath Yatra is such a festival, which you will get to see this festival in every state of India. Apart from Puri, you will get to see Rath Yatra happening in other states of India. Like Gujarat, West Bengal and other state and UTs.
Rath Yatra is not limit to India only. It will be see in different countries like Russia and America. You will get to see the Rath Yatra happening in every ISKCON temple.
In this article, let’s know about Rath yatra date, time, history and their significance.
Rath Yatra
Jagannath Yatra 2023 will be celebrate with great pomp. Due to the restrictions of COVID Pandemic, the last 2 years Rath Yatra was celebrated with very limited restrictions. It is expect that around 10 lakh devotees are gather at Puri this year.
Rath Yatra 2023 Date
In 2023, Rath Yatra is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, June 20. This auspicious day is celebrated on the second day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Ashadha.
Note that the Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023 dates may vary slightly based on the local lunar calendar and other astrological factors. Therefore, it is always advisable to confirm the exact date with local authorities or experts.
Related Article: Places to Visit in Puri | 10+ Best Sightseeing & Tourist places
About Rath Yatra
Jagannath Rathyatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a major Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian state of Odisha, as well as in other parts of India and around the world. The festival involves the procession of deities on elaborately decorated chariots, pulled by devotees through the streets.
The most famous Rathyatra takes place in Puri, Odisha, where it is associated with the Jagannath Temple. The festival commemorates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Krishna), his brother Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Subhadra to the Gundicha Temple. It is believed that during this period, the deities visit their aunt’s house and return to the main temple after a few days.
The main attraction of the Jagannath Rath Yatra is the procession of the chariots. Three chariots, one for each deity, are constructed anew every year. The chariots are massive and intricately decorated with bright colors, motifs, and designs. The chariot of Lord Jagannath, called Nandighosa Ratha, is the largest and tallest among the three. The chariot of Lord Balabhadra, called Taladhwaja Ratha, and the chariot of Subhadra, called Darpadalana Ratha, are comparatively smaller.
On the day of the Jagannath Rath Yatra, devotees gather in large numbers to witness the procession and pull the chariots. The pulling of the chariots is considered an act of great devotion and is believed to be auspicious. People from all walks of life come together to participate in the event, singing devotional songs, dancing, and expressing their love for the deities.
The Rath Yatra is not only celebrated in Puri but also in other parts of India and across the world, wherever there are Jagannath temples. The festival has gained popularity and is observed with great enthusiasm, especially among the followers of Lord Jagannath.
Rath Yatra History
Jagannath Rath Yatra is more than five thousand years old. Rath Yatra is a celebration of Lord Jagannath, who is considered the deity of the universe’s, who journey towards his aunt’s home or ‘Mausi Bari’.
Traditionally, the Rath Yatra festival is celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha. During this world famous festival, Lord Jagannath is worshiped. Their is along with his brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Goddess Subhadra.
Caution Message for Devotees
The threat of COVID is not over. This is the message to all the devotees that,
- Wearing a face mask
- Do not enter in high density
- Keep a water bottle with you
- Try to keep enough distance
- Always keep a cotton pad with you
- If you are with family, then try to stay close all the time
- Everyone carry a mobile phone
Live Telecast of Rath Yatra
The good news for the devotees is that those who are not fortunate enough to go Puri. You can watch the live telecast by sitting at home. Puri Rath Yatra will live broadcast on various channels, Like DD National and almost all Odia TV channels.
Local Tourism Wishes
Everyone waits for this day. If you have never gone to see the Rath Yatra at Puri, then you must visit once in your life.
Our wishes: May the chariots brings new zeal and happiness in your life. So, wish you and your family members Happy Rath Yatra 2023.
Best Book to Buy for Puri tour
If you’re looking for a book to enhance your understanding and knowledge about Puri and its significance, here’s a recommendation:
Jagannatha of Puri (Amar Chitra Katha)
Included in this Amar Chitra Katha is the story behind the temple of Jagannathpuri in Orissa and the images installed in it.
FAQs on Rath Yatra
Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the state of Odisha, India. It involves the grand procession of Lord Jagannath, his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, and the celestial wheel Sudarshan on elaborately decorated chariots. The deities are taken in a procession from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, covering a distance of about 2 miles.
Rath Yatra is usually celebrated in the month of June or July, on the second day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu lunar month of Ashadha. The date varies each year based on the Hindu calendar.
The most famous and grand Rath Yatra takes place in Puri, Odisha, where the Jagannath Temple is located. The procession attracts millions of devotees from all over the world. However, Rath Yatra is also celebrated in other parts of India and abroad, wherever there are Jagannath temples.
Rath Yatra holds immense significance in Hindu mythology and is considered a highly auspicious event. It is believed that participating in the Rath Yatra and pulling the chariots of the deities brings good fortune and blessings. The festival also symbolizes the journey of Lord Jagannath, his siblings, and the wheel of time, reminding people of the transitory nature of life.
Rath Yatra involves the ceremonial procession of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra in their chariots. The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees, who consider it a great honor and act of devotion. The procession moves through the streets, accompanied by music, dance, and chanting of hymns. Devotees throng the route to catch a glimpse of the deities and seek their blessings.
Yes, there are various rituals associated with Rath Yatra. Before the procession, the deities undergo a special bath ceremony known as Snana Purnima. Afterward, they are placed on the chariots and offered various offerings and prayers. During the procession, several rituals are performed, and the chariots are pulled with great enthusiasm. On reaching the Gundicha Temple, the deities stay there for a few days before returning to the Jagannath Temple.
Rath Yatra is open to everyone, irrespective of caste, creed, or gender. Devotees from all walks of life participate in the festival and pull the chariots. It is believed that participating in Rath Yatra and having a glimpse of the deities during the procession is highly auspicious and brings blessings.
Rath Yatra is primarily a Hindu festival, but it has gained popularity and participation from people of various religions and backgrounds. The grandeur and cultural significance of the festival attract people from different communities who join in the celebrations and show their reverence to Lord Jagannath.
Yes, during Rath Yatra, various safety measures are implemented to ensure the well-being of the participants and manage the large crowds. Security personnel are deployed to maintain order and prevent any untoward incidents. Crowd control measures, barricades, and medical facilities are set up along the procession route to address any emergencies.
Yes, tourists are welcome to visit Puri during Rath Yatra to witness the grand festival. However, it is advisable to plan your trip well in advance, as accommodations tend to get booked quickly during this time. It’s also important to respect the religious sentiments of the devotees and follow the guidelines and regulations set by the local authorities.
