Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2024 Date, Full Calendar & Significance: What Is Rath Yatra? Grand Procession, Religious & Cultural Importance

Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most famous and grand festivals celebrated in India, particularly in the state of Odisha. This vibrant festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and is marked by a grand procession of chariots. Here is everything you need to know about Rath Yatra 2024, including its date, significance, and how it is celebrated.

Jagannath Rath Yatra 2024 Date & Full Calendar

In 2024, Rath Yatra will be celebrated on July 7. The festival takes place annually on the second day of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the Hindu month of Ashadha.

Snana Purnima: June 21, 2024

The ceremonial bathing of the deities.

Rath Yatra: July 7, 2024

The main day of the chariot procession.

Hera Panchami: July 12, 2024

A ritual symbolising Goddess Lakshmi’s visit to the Gundicha Temple in search of Lord Jagannath.

Bahuda Yatra: July 15, 2024

The return journey of the deities to the Jagannath Temple.

Suna Besha: July 16, 2024

The deities are adorned with gold ornaments.

Niladri Bijaya: July 17, 2024

Rath Yatra Significance

Rath Yatra holds immense religious and cultural significance. The festival celebrates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple in Puri, Odisha.

Religious Importance:

Rath Yatra symbolizes the journey of Lord Jagannath from his temple to his aunt’s house at the Gundicha Temple. It signifies the desire of the Lord to give darshan (divine viewing) to all devotees, especially those who cannot visit the Jagannath Temple.

Cultural Significance:

The festival is a grand display of the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. It brings together millions of devotees and tourists from across the world, showcasing traditional music, dance, and arts.

Symbol of Equality:

Rath Yatra is a festival that breaks barriers of caste, creed, and social status. It is believed that everyone, irrespective of their background, can pull the chariots and seek blessings from the deities.

What is Rath Yatra?

Rath Yatra, literally meaning "Chariot Journey," involves the deities being placed on giant, elaborately decorated chariots. These chariots are then pulled through the streets of Puri by thousands of devotees. The main attractions of the festival include:

Three Chariots:

Nandighosa (Lord Jagannath’s chariot): This chariot has 16 wheels and is decorated with red and yellow fabrics.

Taladhwaja (Lord Balabhadra’s chariot): It has 14 wheels and is adorned with blue and red fabrics.

Darpadalana (Devi Subhadra’s chariot): This chariot, with 12 wheels, is decorated in black and red fabrics.

Grand Procession

The deities are placed on their respective chariots, and a grand procession begins from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, covering a distance of about 3 kilometres. Devotees pull the chariots with ropes, singing devotional songs and chanting the names of the deities.

Rath Yatra is not just a festival; it is a profound expression of faith, devotion, and cultural unity. The grandeur of the chariot procession, the fervent participation of devotees, and the rich traditions make it a spectacular event. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or a cultural enthusiast, experiencing Rath Yatra is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Odisha’s vibrant heritage.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 08, 2024 11:28 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).