Ratha Yatra
June 26, Thursday
Historical and Religious Significance
Ratha Yatra has deep religious significance in the Vaishnavite tradition. It symbolizes the Lord's desire to come out of the temple and give darshan (divine viewing) to all people, including those who may not be allowed inside the temple. The festival is rooted in ancient traditions and is mentioned in various Hindu scriptures.
Main Deities Involved
- Lord Jagannath: A form of Lord Krishna, worshipped primarily in Odisha.
- Balabhadra: The elder brother of Jagannath, identified with Balarama.
- Subhadra: The sister of Jagannath and Balabhadra.
Key Features of the Festival
- The deities are placed on massive, elaborately decorated wooden chariots.
- Devotees pull the chariots through the streets, often with great enthusiasm and devotion.
- The main procession in Puri attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists from around the world.
- The journey typically ends at the Gundicha Temple, where the deities stay for a few days before returning.
When is Ratha Yatra Celebrated?
Ratha Yatra is celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashadha, which usually falls in June or July.
Global Celebrations
While Puri hosts the most famous Ratha Yatra, the festival is also celebrated in other parts of India and around the world, especially by followers of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). Cities like London, New York, and San Francisco host their own versions of the chariot festival.