2023 puri jagannath rath yatra details
2023 Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra details
Tuesday, 20 June 2023.
Dwitiya Tithi starts date – 19 June 2023 at 11:25 am.
Dwitiya ending date – 20 June 2023 at 01:07 pm.
The Rath Yatra is celebrated on the second day of the two-week-long Ashadha month of the Hindu calendar and this year, it takes place on June 20. The festival usually falls between June and July.
Jagannath Rath Yatra Puri
The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is a famous Hindu festival that takes place in the city of Puri, located in the eastern state of Odisha, India. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is considered a form of Lord Krishna. The festival involves the ceremonial procession of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, on specially crafted chariots.
The Rath Yatra usually takes place in the month of June or July, during the Hindu month of Ashadha. The main highlight of the festival is the pulling of the chariots by devotees through the streets of Puri, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, which is about 2.5 kilometers away. The chariots are enormous and are built anew every year using specific types of wood.
Thousands of devotees from all over India and even abroad gather in Puri to participate in the Rath Yatra. It is believed that pulling the chariots brings good fortune and blessings. The atmosphere during the festival is filled with devotion, music, dance, and religious fervor. The procession is accompanied by various religious rituals, chants, and hymns.
The Rath Yatra holds immense significance for the devotees, as it is believed to be an opportunity to have darshan (sight) of Lord Jagannath, who is otherwise secluded within the temple premises throughout the year. It is also believed that anyone who participates in the Rath Yatra or even catches a glimpse of the deities during the procession is blessed and their sins are washed away.
The Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra is not only a religious event but also a significant cultural extravaganza that showcases the rich heritage and traditions of Odisha. It attracts tourists and pilgrims from all over the world, who come to witness this grand spectacle and seek the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath
Why Jagannath Rath Yatra Celebrated
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated for several reasons, each with its own significance and symbolism. Here are the main reasons why the Rath Yatra is celebrated:
Commemorating Lord Jagannath’s Journey:
The Rath Yatra celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Gundicha Temple, also known as their birthplace. It is believed that Lord Jagannath wishes to visit his aunt’s temple, and the Rath Yatra is an opportunity for devotees to participate in this sacred journey.
Symbol of Unity and Equality:
The Rath Yatra promotes the ideals of unity and equality. During the festival, people from all walks of life, irrespective of their caste, creed, or social status, come together to pull the chariots. It signifies that everyone is equal before the divine and emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony in society.
Divine Darshan (Sight) of Lord Jagannath:
The Rath Yatra provides an opportunity for devotees to have darshan (sight) of Lord Jagannath. Throughout the year, the deities are secluded within the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple, and the Rath Yatra allows devotees to catch a glimpse of the deities and receive their divine blessings.
Spiritual Cleansing and Liberation:
Participating in the Rath Yatra is believed to have spiritual benefits. It is said that even watching or being near the chariots during the procession can cleanse one’s sins and bring about spiritual liberation. Devotees seek to be in the presence of Lord Jagannath to seek his blessings and attain spiritual upliftment.
Cultural and Festive Celebration:
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is not only a religious event but also a vibrant cultural celebration. It showcases the rich heritage, traditions, music, dance, and art forms of Odisha. The festival brings joy and enthusiasm to the devotees and creates a festive atmosphere in Puri.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated with great devotion, fervor, and joy by millions of devotees, not only in Puri but also in different parts of India and around the world. It serves as a significant occasion for spiritual renewal, cultural expression, and community bonding.
what expect in jagannath rath yatra
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a vibrant and grand festival that offers a unique and immersive experience for participants. Here are some things you can expect when attending the Jagannath Rath Yatra:
Procession of the Chariots:
The highlight of the Rath Yatra is the grand procession of the chariots. The three chariots, carrying the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, are pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets of Puri. The sight of the massive chariots and the enthusiasm of the devotees create a lively and festive atmosphere.
Devotional Chants and Music:
Throughout the Rath Yatra, devotees engage in devotional singing and chanting of hymns dedicated to Lord Jagannath. The air is filled with the melodious sounds of bhajans (devotional songs) and kirtans (devotional chants), creating a spiritual and uplifting ambiance.
Pilgrims and Devotees:
The Rath Yatra attracts a vast number of pilgrims and devotees from all over India and abroad. You can expect to witness a diverse gathering of people, all united in their devotion to Lord Jagannath. The festival provides a unique opportunity to interact with fellow devotees and experience the spiritual energy they bring.
Decorated Chariots and Temples:
The chariots used in the Rath Yatra are elaborately decorated with vibrant colors, intricate designs, and religious symbols. The temples along the procession route, including the Jagannath Temple and the Gundicha Temple, are adorned with flowers and festive decorations, adding to the visual splendor of the event.
Street Performances and Cultural Displays:
The streets of Puri come alive during the Rath Yatra with various cultural performances. You can expect to witness traditional music, dance forms like Odissi, folk dances, and other cultural displays. These performances showcase the rich cultural heritage of Odisha and add an extra layer of celebration to the festival.
Local Cuisine and Food Stalls:
During the Rath Yatra, you can explore the local cuisine of Puri. The streets are lined with food stalls and vendors selling a variety of traditional Odia delicacies. It’s an excellent opportunity to savor mouthwatering street food and experience the flavors of the region.
Spiritual Upliftment and Blessings:
The Jagannath Rath Yatra offers a chance for spiritual upliftment and seeking blessings from Lord Jagannath. Many devotees believe that participating in the festival and having darshan (sight) of the deities can bring about spiritual cleansing, fulfillment of desires, and divine grace.
It’s important to note that the Jagannath Rath Yatra is a major festival that attracts a large crowd, so it’s advisable to plan ahead, arrive early, and be prepared for the enthusiastic atmosphere and bustling streets.
interesting facts about ratha yatra puri
Age-old Tradition: The Ratha Yatra in Puri is believed to be one of the oldest and grandest chariot festivals in the world, with a history that dates back over 5,000 years. It has been celebrated continuously for centuries, attracting millions of devotees every year.
Massive Chariots:
The chariots used in the Ratha Yatra are among the largest in the world. The Nandighosa, the largest chariot dedicated to Lord Jagannath, stands at a towering height of approximately 45 feet and has 18 wheels. The combined weight of the chariots reaches several tons.
Unique Construction:
The construction of the chariots follows specific guidelines and traditional techniques. The entire process is carried out by skilled artisans using only natural materials like wood, ropes, and cloth. No iron or steel is used in the construction of the chariots.
Carving of Sacred Logs:
The central wooden pillars of the chariots, known as the “Rath Khamba,” are made from sacred trees that are chosen in an elaborate ritual. These logs are carved and shaped by specialized artisans to form the backbone of the chariots.
Annual Reconstruction:
Each year, before the Ratha Yatra, the chariots are reconstructed anew. The old chariots are dismantled, and the wood from the previous year’s chariots is used as fuel for the sacred fire in the temple kitchen.
Symbolic Colors:
The colors of the chariots hold symbolic significance. The Nandighosa, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, is painted yellow and red, representing the color of the sun. The Taladhwaja, dedicated to Lord Balabhadra, is painted in green and red, symbolizing nature. The Darpadalana, dedicated to Devi Subhadra, is painted in black and red.
Rath Yatra as Democracy:
The Rath Yatra is often referred to as the “Festival of Democracy” as it is one of the few occasions when people from all walks of life, irrespective of caste, creed, or social status, come together to pull the chariots. The act of pulling the chariots is seen as a gesture of equality and unity before the divine.
International Celebrations:
The Ratha Yatra in Puri has inspired similar celebrations in various parts of the world. Many cities across the globe, including London, New York, Toronto, and Sydney, organize their own versions of the Rath Yatra, attracting both Indian and non-Indian devotees.
These are just a few fascinating facts about the Ratha Yatra in Puri. The festival’s rich history, grandeur, and spiritual significance make it a remarkable event that continues to captivate people’s hearts and minds.
timings ratha yatra puri
The timings of the Ratha Yatra in Puri can vary slightly from year to year. However, traditionally, the Ratha Yatra takes place on the second day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) in the Hindu month of Ashadha, which usually falls in June or July. The festival spans over several days, and here are the general timings for some significant events during the Ratha Yatra:
Nabajoubana Darshan:
On the day before the Ratha Yatra, known as Nabajoubana Darshan, devotees can have a special darshan (sight) of the deities in the Jagannath Temple. This usually takes place early in the morning, starting around 5:00 AM and continuing for a few hours.
Ratha Yatra:
The main event of the Ratha Yatra is the procession of the chariots. On the day of the Ratha Yatra, the chariots are pulled from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. The procession typically starts around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM and lasts for several hours, as the chariots slowly make their way through the streets of Puri.
Chhera Pahara:
Chhera Pahara is a significant ritual that takes place during the Ratha Yatra. It involves the Gajapati Maharaja, the king of Puri, sweeping the chariots with a golden broom. This act symbolizes the humility and devotion of the king towards Lord Jagannath. Chhera Pahara usually takes place in the afternoon or early evening.
Return Procession:
After a stay of about a week at the Gundicha Temple, the deities return to the Jagannath Temple in a procession known as the Ulta Ratha or Bahuda Yatra. The return procession usually takes place after a few days of the Ratha Yatra, and the timings are similar to the Ratha Yatra procession.
It’s important to note that the exact timings and schedule for the Ratha Yatra may vary each year. It is advisable to check with local authorities, the Jagannath Temple administration, or reliable sources for the specific timings and updates for the year you plan to attend the Ratha Yatra in Puri.
places to visit near jagnnath temple
There are several notable places to visit near the Jagannath Temple in Puri. Here are some popular ones:
Gundicha Temple:
Located about 3 kilometers northeast of the Jagannath Temple, the Gundicha Temple holds immense significance during the Rath Yatra. It is believed to be the birthplace of Lord Jagannath, and during the festival, the deities are taken from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple for a temporary stay.
Puri Beach:
Situated adjacent to the Jagannath Temple, Puri Beach is a major attraction for both pilgrims and tourists. It offers a scenic coastline, where visitors can enjoy walks along the shore, witness beautiful sunrises or sunsets, and indulge in various beach activities.
Chilika Lake:
Located about 40 kilometers southwest of Puri, Chilika Lake is the largest brackish water lake in Asia and a haven for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. It is home to numerous migratory birds and provides stunning views, boat rides, and the opportunity to explore its diverse ecosystem.
Konark Sun Temple:
Located approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Puri, the Konark Sun Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a magnificent example of ancient Indian architecture. Dedicated to the Sun God, the temple is famous for its exquisite stone carvings and the architectural marvel of the Sun Temple chariot.
Raghurajpur Heritage Village:
Situated about 14 kilometers southwest of Puri, Raghurajpur is a traditional crafts village renowned for its Pattachitra paintings, palm leaf engravings, and traditional art forms. Visitors can explore the village, interact with artists, and purchase unique handicrafts.
Sakshigopal Temple:
Located around 20 kilometers northeast of Puri, Sakshigopal Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna. It is a popular pilgrimage site, particularly for newlywed couples seeking the blessings of the divine couple, Radha and Krishna.
Pipili:
Situated on the way to Puri from Bhubaneswar, Pipili is known for its applique work, an intricate and colorful fabric art form. Visitors can explore the vibrant markets and witness artisans engaged in creating beautiful applique crafts.
These are just a few of the many attractions near the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The region offers a blend of spirituality, history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for tourists and pilgrims alike.
how to reach jagnnath ratha yatra puri
Puri is a popular pilgrimage destination in Odisha, India, known for the Jagannath Temple and the Ratha Yatra. Here are several ways to reach Puri for the Ratha Yatra:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Puri is Biju Patnaik International Airport (BBI) in Bhubaneswar, which is approximately 60 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-paid taxi to Puri, which is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on the traffic.
By Train:
Puri has its own railway station, called Puri Railway Station (PURI), which is well-connected to major cities in India. Many trains, including express and superfast trains, operate on the Puri route. From the railway station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach the Jagannath Temple area.
By Road:
Puri is well-connected to various cities and towns in Odisha and neighboring states through a network of national highways and state highways. You can reach Puri by private car, taxi, or bus. Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha, is about 60 kilometers away from Puri, and it takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road.
By Bus:
Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) and private bus operators run regular bus services to Puri from major cities and towns in Odisha and neighboring states. You can find both luxury and regular buses to Puri. Buses usually drop passengers at Puri Bus Stand, which is located near the Jagannath Temple.
It’s advisable to plan your travel and book your accommodations in advance, especially during the Ratha Yatra, as the festival attracts a large number of devotees and tourists. Additionally, it’s recommended to check for any travel advisories, COVID-19 guidelines, and local regulations before your visit.
Please note that the above information is based on general travel guidelines, and it’s always a good idea to verify the specific details and transportation options based on your location and the current circumstances.