The annual Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath commenced in Puri, Odisha, on Sunday, July 7, and, due to unique celestial alignments, extended over two days this year. This grand event celebrates the yearly journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, believed to be their aunt’s residence. After nine days, the deities return to the Jagannath Temple, marking the end of the yatra.

Puri celebrates 2-day Rath Yatra on July 7 and 8

Puri celebrates the 2-day Rath Yatra on July 7 and 8 (Sa India Travel)

President Droupadi Murmu joined millions of devotees from all over the country to witness this significant religious event on July 7. The Odisha government ensured the festival’s smooth and timely execution with extensive arrangements and heightened security, especially for the President’s visit.

The Puri Rath Yatra Journey

Also known as the Chariot Festival, the Rath Yatra signifies the Holy Trinity’s pilgrimage to their maternal aunt, Goddess Gundicha Devi’s Temple, culminating in their return after eight days. On the day of the Yatra, the chariots are stationed in front of the Lion’s Gate of the Jagannath Temple before proceeding to the Gundicha Temple, where they remain for nine days.

During their stay, the deities reside at the Gundicha Temple, allowing pilgrims to have darshan before the return journey to Puri, known as the Bahuda Yatra. On the way back, the procession pauses at the Mausi Maa Temple (their aunt’s abode), where the deities are offered Poda Pitha, a traditional sweet pancake.

Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath meet their devotees during Rath Yatra

Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath move out of their temple to meet their devotees during Rath Yatra (Medium)

On the ninth day, the three chariots carrying Lord Jagannatha, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra return to the entrance of the Jagannath Temple in Puri. This marks the beginning of the Suna Besha celebration, where the deities are adorned with gold, attracting devotees for darshan.

Suna Bheso signifies Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath adorned with gold ornaments

Suna Bheso signifies Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath adorned with gold ornaments (Ommcom News)

The celebration continues with Adhara Pana, a special sweet drink made from cheese, milk, sugar, and spices, offered to the deities by breaking three large pots on the chariots. 

Adhara Pana celebration in Puri

Adhara Pana celebration in Puri (odishabytes)

Following this is Niladri Bije, also known as Rasogolla Dibasa. During this event, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra enter the Puri Temple, but Lord Jagannath is initially denied entry as he had left his wife to visit his aunt. Lord Jagannath offers her rasgullas to convince his wife to open the door. Only when she agrees does he enter the temple.

Puri celebrates Rasogolla Dibasa in rejoicement of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra's Home Return

Puri celebrates Rasogolla Dibasa in happiness of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra’s Home Return (Pragativadi)

During the Rath Yatra, the deities traverse the streets of Puri, allowing everyone to seek their blessings. Each deity has a distinct chariot: Lord Balabhadra’s chariot has 16 wheels, Lord Jagannath’s chariot has 18 wheels, and Subhadra’s chariot has 14 wheels. The Jagannath Temple is regarded as one of the holiest temples in the country.

 

Rath Yatra 2024 Significance

The grand Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath took place over two days this year, on July 7 and July 8, 2024, in Puri. For the first time in 53 years, due to a rare celestial event, Nabajaubana Darshan, Netra Utsav, and the Rath Yatra all occurred on the same day, July 7. On this day, the three chariots moved halfway and halted. On July 8, the deities in their chariots continued their journey to the Shree Gundicha Temple in the second half of the day.

The three Raths in front of Puri temple

The three Raths in front of Puri temple (AstroPush)

This unique occurrence provided devotees with twice the opportunity to receive blessings from Lord Jagannath this year.

Popular Sweet Delicacies during Rath Yatra

There are many famous spots and eateries for devotees visiting Puri during this time. The mouth-watering sweet delicacies are worth trying and promise exquisite taste. 

Puri Khaja

Puri Khaja (Pragativadi)

 

Malpua and Rabdi

Malpua and Rabdi (Times Now)

 

Rasgulla

Rasgulla (The Better India)

 

Podo Pitha

Podo Pitha (cookpad.com)

 

  • ​Poda Pitha 
  • Khaja
  • Rasabali 
  • Chenna Poda
  • Malpua
  • Rabdi
  • Magaja Ladoo
  • Rasgulla
  • Kheera
Raths of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath in front of Gundicha temple, Puri

Raths of Lord Jagannath, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath in front of Gundicha temple, Puri (Prabhat Khabar)

The Rath Yatra celebration in Puri is a magnificent display of devotion and tradition, drawing millions of devotees who come to witness and participate in the grand procession. The festival not only honors the deities but also brings a profound sense of unity and spiritual fulfillment to all who attend. Anyone can watch glimpses of Puri Rath Yatra 2024 on YouTube! Jai Jagannath!

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Sanghamitra Roychoudhary

Sanghamitra Roychoudhary

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Sanghamitra Roychoudhary

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