Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Even Chariot Ropes Have Sacred Names, Here's The Story
Last Updated:
During Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, along with Balabhadra and Subhadra, travels from Puri temple to Gundicha Temple. The 12-day journey holds deep spiritual significance
Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the ' Puri Festival of Chariots ', is one of the most revered and grand festivals in the Hindu religion. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, the event is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. People from all over the world come to witness the grand incarnation of Lord Vishnu with great reverence and enthusiasm.
This year, the journey begins on Friday, June 27, and will continue until July 8. Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, travels from the main temple of Puri to the Gundicha Temple on grand chariots. The yatra lasts for 12 days, with each day holding special spiritual significance.
According to Bhopal-based astrologer and Vastu consultant Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, the yatra begins on Friday on the second day (Dwitiya Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. As per the Hindu Panchang, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga occurs from 5:25 am to 7:22 am, followed by Pushya Nakshatra. The most auspicious moment of the day, Abhijit Muhurat, falls between 11:56 am and 12:52 pm, the time when the Lord's chariot procession officially begins.
Rituals On The First Day
One of the most iconic rituals is Chhera Panhara, performed by the King of Puri. In a gesture of humility and service, he sweeps the area beneath the chariot with a golden broom. Another notable event is Hera Panchami, when Goddess Lakshmi visits the Gundicha Temple and expresses her displeasure at Lord Jagannath for leaving her behind, adding a dramatic touch to the festival.
Interestingly, even the ropes used to pull the chariots are named. Lord Jagannath's 16-wheeled chariot is called Nandighosh, and its rope is named Shankhachuda Nadi. Balabhadra's 14-wheeled chariot is Taladhwaj, with the rope called Basuki. Subhadra's 12-wheeled chariot is Darpadalan, and its rope is Swarnachuda Nadi. Touching these ropes is considered highly auspicious.
Who Can Pull The Chariots?
One of the most special aspects of the Rath Yatra is its inclusivity. People from all religions, castes, and countries are welcome to pull the chariots. The only requirement is a pure heart filled with devotion. It is believed that pulling the chariot can help one break free from the cycle of life and death, moving towards salvation.
However, no individual is allowed to pull for too long, ensuring that all devotees have a chance. Even simply participating with sincere devotion is said to be as virtuous as performing a thousand sacred rituals (yagnas).
How Did the Rath Yatra Begin?
According to the Skanda Purana, one day Subhadra expressed a desire to see the city. To fulfil her wish, Jagannath and Balabhadra placed her on a chariot and took her on a tour, including a visit to their aunt's home, the Gundicha Temple, where they stayed for seven days. This event marked the beginning of the tradition, which continues to this day.
Structure of The Chariots
Each deity rides in a different chariot, each uniquely structured:
All chariots are built using specific types of sacred wood, and new ones are constructed every year. The chariots are pulled from the main temple to the Gundicha Temple using thick ropes, a tradition believed to bring peace and happiness to one's life.
Lord Krishna's Heart
A fascinating belief associated with Lord Jagannath is that his idol contains the heart of Lord Krishna, which, according to legend, did not burn after his death. It is said this sacred heart appeared as a piece of wood on the seashore and was discovered by King Indradyumna of Odisha in a dream. This wood was then installed inside the idol, where it remains to this day.
Why Is The Idol Changed Every 12 Years?
The idol of Lord Jagannath is made from Neem wood and is replaced every 12 years in a ritual called ' Navakalevar '. However, the inner wooden core, believed to be Lord Krishna's heart, is never changed. During the replacement, the entire city's electricity is turned off. The priest changes the idol while blindfolded, with cloth wrapped around his hands, so he neither sees nor touches the sacred core directly. It is said that anyone who sees this divine wood faces instant death.
The Rath Yatra is believed to relieve participants from the burden of past karmas and bring peace of mind. It is said that taking part in this divine journey grants the same spiritual merit as performing a hundred yagnas.
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Mint
38 minutes ago
- Mint
The Pahalgam attack crushed Kashmir's fledgling offbeat tourism. The Amarnath Yatra could be a new start.
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'Coming in April, just as the peak summer season was about to begin, and directly targeting tourists, the attack dealt a heavy blow to the industry at its most crucial moment," Javed Bashir, a 33-year-old tour operator from the Baramulla district, 53 kilometres from Jammu and Kashmir's (J&K) summer capital Srinagar, told Mint. While some tourists can be spotted at popular tourist destinations, the far-flung places remain completely deserted, said Bashir, who has been in the business since 2018. Encouraged by the newfound normalcy in the Valley following the abrogation of Article 370, tourists turned up in droves, with J&K recording 23.6 million tourist visits in 2024—the highest ever, according to the Economic Survey 2024-25. To accommodate this growing influx, the administration gradually started promoting offbeat destinations. Hidden valleys, quiet villages, and virgin alpine meadows began welcoming visitors, marking an unexpected turning point for tourism in the Valley. There was a tourist boom, and with it came hope. "Many hotels, guest houses, and other properties were under construction. People invested heavily, believing the momentum would continue. But now, it seems all is lost," said Mushtaq Chaya, chairman of the J&K Hoteliers Club. Thousands of families who depend on tourism for their livelihood are suffering. 'Many are now on the brink of bankruptcy unless tourist confidence is restored soon," a senior tourism official told Mint on the condition of anonymity. The official added that repeated communications with higher authorities have proven futile, as not a single site has been reopened yet. Struggling to make ends meet, two million people—from hotel and homestay owners to their staff, tour guides, transport operators, 'ponywallahs'—are now pinning their hopes on the Amarnath Yatra (3 July to 9 August), an annual Hindu pilgrimage, to revive the industry this winter season. Investments down the drain The tourism had also been flourishing along the Line of Control (LoC), a rare and hopeful sight after years of uncertainty. By the summer of 2021, just months after the February ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, the streets of border villages were alive. Also Read: From Konkan's Alphonso to Andhra's Imam Pasand, why are Indian mangoes losing their sweet spot? For the first time in nearly three decades, people of these once-restricted zones were able to welcome tourists, both domestic and international, eager to explore the serene valleys that had long been off limits. The calm along the border seemed to promise a new chapter for Kashmir, a peaceful and prosperous future where the beauty of the land could finally shine through without the looming threat of conflict. For example, in 2023, the border district of Kupwara hosted 140,000 tourists. Those who invested in offbeat tourism now find themselves idle with no work. In Kupwara's Lolab Valley, about 20 hotels set up by locals through loans and leases are now facing heavy losses, said Talib Hussain, who has lost his job as a travel agency manager. 'Between April and June, we usually see a good flow of tourists who come to enjoy trekking, camping, the gushing streams, lush green forests, and the centuries-old Kalaroos caves, but not this year," the 29-year-old told Mint. Similarly, Keran, nestled amid lush green forests, walnut trees, meadows, streams, and wooden houses, once provided a serene escape for visitors, drawing many to its peaceful atmosphere. One part in Kupwara district and the other in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, the village is bisected by the Kishanganga River (known as Neelum on the other side), making it a unique offbeat tourist attraction. In its Jhelum Bazar, hotelier Dilshad Ahmad Bhat remembered the joy of welcoming tourists after the 2021 ceasefire, which inspired him to take a ₹5 lakh bank loan in 2024 to renovate his hotel. But now, 'the hotel is empty, and so are the vegetable and meat shops I used to buy from for my guests. It's not just about the money, but it is also my mental health, slipping away with every silent day," Bhat told Mint. Gurez Valley in the Bandipora district is another breathtaking slice of paradise, bordered by thick forests, towering mountains, and the winding Kishanganga River. Nestled 123km from Srinagar, at an altitude of 2,400 meters, once a key stop on the ancient Silk Route, the valley's beauty is rivalled only by its isolation, with snowfall cutting off access for more than six months each year. Mohammad Ismail Lone, a homestay owner and the head of the Gurez Traders Federation, recalled with quiet pride how his modest homestay welcomed hundreds of visitors in just a single year, earning him ₹5-6 lakh, a lifeline not just for him, but also for the four employees who ran the place like family. 'After the attack, everything changed. 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The place, which once echoed with tourists' adventure and the sound of hooves on the ground, is now silent. Long-lasting impact Political instability has a profound impact on global tourism. 'Tourists always look for peace and security, which are fundamental prerequisites for travel. Incidents like 9/11 and the 2008 Mumbai attack have had far-reaching consequences beyond their immediate regions," said Reyaz Ahmad Qureshi, head professor at the department of tourism, hospitality and leisure studies, University of Kashmir. Also Read: Why is walking on eggshells beyond Gurugram, its home turf He added that while Kashmir has endured a prolonged period of unrest, it has been gradually transitioning into a post-conflict phase since 2021, fostering a sense of growing optimism within the tourism sector. He argued for a more nuanced approach to dealing the terrorism's impact on tourism. 'Sealing off tourist spots or banning trekking sends the wrong message. Offbeat destinations could be reopened gradually with proper regulation." 'We must project Kashmir as a safe, beautiful, and affordable destination. Campaigns like 'Aao Kashmir Chalein' should be sustained and should emphasize the warmth and sacrifices made by locals to ensure visitors feel welcome," added Qureshi, stressing that negative media coverage must be addressed with professionalism and assured security. Still many, including Bashir, remain cautiously optimistic about a revival in tourism in the Union territory. He expects the Amarnath Yatra and snow-draped landscapes during winters to lure visitors back to the Valley. 'While the summer season may have slipped away in the shadow of recent events, the story is not over yet. The season is definitely behind us, but once the Amarnath Yatra concludes in August, the spotlight will shift to winter," he said. 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Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Deities embark on boat chariot procession in Chilika
1 2 3 Bhubaneswar: In a distinctive departure from traditional Rath Yatra, the holy trinity of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra embarked on a unique water-borne sojourn at Kankan Sikhari, an islet in Chilika lagoon, on Friday. The deities are placed on a specially designed chariot mounted on three interconnected boats. "After the ceremonial Pahandi ritual, we took the deities to the chariot mounted on boats at 1pm. The divine procession circumnavigated the islet while devotees and priests chanted hymns and beat gongs during the journey. At 2.15pm, we brought the deities from the boat to a mandap on the islet," said Susanta Kumar Sahoo, president of the Shree Jagannath Leelakshetra Trust, which manages the temple affairs. He said the most crucial aspect is maintaining balance during the procession. "Skilled boat riders carefully manoeuvred the structure to prevent any accident. In Puri and other places, deities are brought out of the chariots on the next day of Rath Yatra. But we bring them out on the same day and keep them at a mandap in front of the temple for nine days before Bahuda Yatra," said Sahoo. Debendra Dash, secretary of the trust, said two buses were arranged for devotees from Bhubaneswar to participate in the festival in Chilika. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch vàng CFDs với mức chênh lệch giá thấp nhất IC Markets Đăng ký Undo "More than 250 people attended the festival. Many influencers and YouTubers from different parts of the state recorded the event with their drone cameras for those who could not attend the festival," he added. The islet, around 85km from Bhubaneswar, is accessible only by boat from Nairi in Khurda district. According to legends, in 1731, when Mughal Taqi Khan attacked the Jagannath Temple in Puri, idols of the sibling deities were hidden at Kankan Sikhari for 4 months and 16 days. The islet derives its name from 'Kankan' or 'Kankada' (spine gourd), which was offered to the deities during their stay. "Earlier, the idols were carried on a simple boat, but visibility was an issue due to lack of eight. In 2022, we innovated by creating a 25-ft-tall chariot mounted on three boats," said Sahoo. The festival, which began to be held in the islet in 2017, draws thousands of devotees. "Out of curiosity, many attend to see how Rath Yatra is organised on boat," said Arabinda Das, a member of the trust. The site has witnessed developments over the years, including the construction of a community hall by the Chilika Development Authority, installation of a solar power system, and an iron shed near the mandap. The islet also houses a wheel from Lord Jagannath's Nandighosh chariot, received from Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri, in 2016.
News18
6 hours ago
- News18
Puri Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Even Chariot Ropes Have Sacred Names, Here's The Story
Last Updated: During Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, along with Balabhadra and Subhadra, travels from Puri temple to Gundicha Temple. The 12-day journey holds deep spiritual significance Jagannath Rath Yatra, also known as the ' Puri Festival of Chariots ', is one of the most revered and grand festivals in the Hindu religion. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, the event is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. People from all over the world come to witness the grand incarnation of Lord Vishnu with great reverence and enthusiasm. This year, the journey begins on Friday, June 27, and will continue until July 8. Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, travels from the main temple of Puri to the Gundicha Temple on grand chariots. The yatra lasts for 12 days, with each day holding special spiritual significance. According to Bhopal-based astrologer and Vastu consultant Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, the yatra begins on Friday on the second day (Dwitiya Tithi) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. As per the Hindu Panchang, Sarvartha Siddhi Yoga occurs from 5:25 am to 7:22 am, followed by Pushya Nakshatra. The most auspicious moment of the day, Abhijit Muhurat, falls between 11:56 am and 12:52 pm, the time when the Lord's chariot procession officially begins. Rituals On The First Day One of the most iconic rituals is Chhera Panhara, performed by the King of Puri. In a gesture of humility and service, he sweeps the area beneath the chariot with a golden broom. Another notable event is Hera Panchami, when Goddess Lakshmi visits the Gundicha Temple and expresses her displeasure at Lord Jagannath for leaving her behind, adding a dramatic touch to the festival. Interestingly, even the ropes used to pull the chariots are named. Lord Jagannath's 16-wheeled chariot is called Nandighosh, and its rope is named Shankhachuda Nadi. Balabhadra's 14-wheeled chariot is Taladhwaj, with the rope called Basuki. Subhadra's 12-wheeled chariot is Darpadalan, and its rope is Swarnachuda Nadi. Touching these ropes is considered highly auspicious. Who Can Pull The Chariots? One of the most special aspects of the Rath Yatra is its inclusivity. People from all religions, castes, and countries are welcome to pull the chariots. The only requirement is a pure heart filled with devotion. It is believed that pulling the chariot can help one break free from the cycle of life and death, moving towards salvation. However, no individual is allowed to pull for too long, ensuring that all devotees have a chance. Even simply participating with sincere devotion is said to be as virtuous as performing a thousand sacred rituals (yagnas). How Did the Rath Yatra Begin? According to the Skanda Purana, one day Subhadra expressed a desire to see the city. To fulfil her wish, Jagannath and Balabhadra placed her on a chariot and took her on a tour, including a visit to their aunt's home, the Gundicha Temple, where they stayed for seven days. This event marked the beginning of the tradition, which continues to this day. Structure of The Chariots Each deity rides in a different chariot, each uniquely structured: All chariots are built using specific types of sacred wood, and new ones are constructed every year. The chariots are pulled from the main temple to the Gundicha Temple using thick ropes, a tradition believed to bring peace and happiness to one's life. Lord Krishna's Heart A fascinating belief associated with Lord Jagannath is that his idol contains the heart of Lord Krishna, which, according to legend, did not burn after his death. It is said this sacred heart appeared as a piece of wood on the seashore and was discovered by King Indradyumna of Odisha in a dream. This wood was then installed inside the idol, where it remains to this day. Why Is The Idol Changed Every 12 Years? The idol of Lord Jagannath is made from Neem wood and is replaced every 12 years in a ritual called ' Navakalevar '. However, the inner wooden core, believed to be Lord Krishna's heart, is never changed. During the replacement, the entire city's electricity is turned off. The priest changes the idol while blindfolded, with cloth wrapped around his hands, so he neither sees nor touches the sacred core directly. It is said that anyone who sees this divine wood faces instant death. The Rath Yatra is believed to relieve participants from the burden of past karmas and bring peace of mind. It is said that taking part in this divine journey grants the same spiritual merit as performing a hundred yagnas. First Published:
