When will Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 start? Know date, history, rituals and significance
Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 start date: The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is one of India's grandest and sacred festivals. This important festival, also known as the Festival of Chariots, attracts millions of devotees worldwide. The Jagannath Rath Yatra marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Goddess Subhadra, from their temple in Puri, Odisha, to the Gundicha Temple.
Let's explore the date, history, rituals, and significance of this iconic event.
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 Date
In 2025, the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra will begin on June 27, 2025. The preparations, however, start much earlier and continue for months. The full festival spans several days, with different rituals and ceremonies performed on specific dates. One significance of this Yatra is that people from all religions and faiths can see the deities and participate in the procession, as they are not allowed to enter the temple on other days. For this, the Puri Rath Yatra sees 4-5 lakh pilgrims yearly; Indians and foreigners flock in large numbers to get a glimpse of the idols in the chariot. It is believed that those who manage to get a glimpse of the idols will have a prosperous year ahead.
Special Chariots Are Made for Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra
During the Jagannath Rath Yatra, special chariots are made for Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. Each deity travels on a separate chariot. Lord Jagannath's chariot is called Nandighosha, is the largest of the three chariots, and it is coloured red and yellow. This chariot stands about 45.5 feet tall. Interestingly, no nails or metal parts are used in making it—it is built entirely from neem wood. The construction of the chariot begins on the day of Akshaya Tritiya. The chariot has 16 wheels and is slightly bigger than the chariots of Balabhadra and Subhadra.
The Story Behind Jagannath Rath Yatra
The legend behind the Jagannath Rath Yatra is heartwarming. It is said that Goddess Subhadra once expressed her wish to visit her aunt's house in Gundicha. To fulfil her wish, Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra decided to accompany her on chariots. This divine journey is re-enacted every year as the Jagannath Rath Yatra.
Some records say the tradition began during the 12th century when the Jagannath Temple was built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. However, many believe the festival's roots are even older and deeply spiritual.
The Significance of the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is more than just a festival. It symbolises unity, devotion, and the connection between the divine and the devotees. When devotees pull the huge wooden chariots of the deities, it is believed to cleanse them of sins and bring blessings.
Another unique ritual during the yatra is when the King of Puri himself sweeps the chariot platforms with a golden broom. This act, known as Chhera Pahanra, shows that in the eyes of God, everyone is equal.
Rituals and Schedule of Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025
The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 will include a series of important rituals spread over many days:
Akshaya Tritiya – 30 April 2025
This marks the official beginning of the yatra preparations. On this auspicious day, the first pieces of wood for building the three chariots are brought in.
Snana Purnima – 11 June 2025
On this day, the deities are bathed with 108 pots of holy water in a grand ceremony. After the bath, they are dressed as elephants, which is called Gaja Besha.
Anavasara – 13 to 26 June 2025
After their bath, the deities fall ill and rest in isolation. During these 15 days, they are treated with herbal remedies and are not available for public viewing.
Gundicha Marjana – 26 June 2025
The Gundicha Temple is cleaned and prepared for the deities. This cleansing represents the purification of the heart before welcoming the divine.
Rath Yatra – 27 June 2025
The main event! The deities are carried in a big procession on their chariots – Nandighosha for Lord Jagannath (16 wheels), Taladhwaja for Balabhadra (14 wheels), and Darpadalan for Subhadra (12 wheels). The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees to the Gundicha Temple.
Hera Panchami – 1 July 2025
This playful ritual marks the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi at Gundicha Temple looking for Lord Jagannath. It symbolises love and divine drama.
Sandhya Darshan – 3 July 2025
The evening view of the deities at Gundicha Temple is considered very sacred. It is believed that seeing the deities here is equal to seeing them for 10 years at the main temple.
Bahuda Yatra – 5 July 2025
The return journey of the deities from Gundicha Temple to Jagannath Temple. On the way, they stop at Mausi Maa Temple to enjoy a special sweet called Poda Pitha.
Suna Besha – 6 July 2025
The deities are dressed in gold jewellery and ornaments. This is one of the most visually stunning parts of the festival.
Adhara Pana – 7 July 2025
A sweet drink made from milk, cheese, and spices is offered to the deities on their chariots. After the offering, the pots are broken to show that divine offerings are meant for all.
Niladri Bijay – 8 July 2025
This marks the end of the festival when the deities return to their sanctum at the Jagannath Temple. This final day is full of joy and celebration.
Why You Should Witness Jagannath Rath Yatra At Least Once
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a religious event, but a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and spirituality. Whether you are a devotee or a curious traveller, this festival offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The massive crowds, the beautiful chariots, the emotional devotion – everything about this event is unforgettable.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a journey of faith, tradition, and unity. With its deep-rooted history, powerful rituals, and spiritual significance, it continues to inspire millions every year. If you are planning a spiritual getaway, make sure to be in Puri for the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2025 and witness this divine journey up close.
For more informative articles on historical and upcoming events from around the world, please visit Indiatimes Events.
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