Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2024 Begins – 7 fascinating facts to know

The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2024, also known as the Ratha Yatra or Chariot Festival begins today, which is one of India’s most vibrant and spiritually significant festivals of Hindus. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, this grand celebration attracts millions of devotees and tourists from across the globe.

Here are seven fascinating facts about this extraordinary event, that every curious netizen should know:

1. The Journey to Gundicha Temple

During the Rath Yatra, the deities Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are carried to the Gundicha Temple, which is considered the maternal aunt’s house of Lord Jagannath. The deities stay there for nine days, during which numerous rituals and festivities take place. During this stay, Lord Jagannath is offered ‘poda pitha,’ a special pancake that is a must for the Lord before His return journey. The return journey of the deities to the Jagannath Temple is called the ‘Bahuda Ratha Yatra,’ which is equally celebrated with great fervour.

2. The Marvel of New Chariots Every Year

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Ratha Yatra is that the chariots used for the deities are newly constructed every year. Skilled carpenters meticulously craft these massive structures using fresh materials, including wood. Despite being rebuilt annually, the design, structure, and dimensions of the chariots remain unchanged. Each chariot features four wooden horses at the front, and hundreds of carpenters work on more than thousands of wooden logs to complete this monumental task.

3. The Majestic Tradition of Puri’s Mythical King

The tradition of the mythical king of Puri continues to hold significance during the Ratha Yatra. It is believed that Lord Jagannath does not embark on his ceremonious journey until the path is swept by the mythical king with a broom made of gold. This ritual underscores the deep-rooted cultural and religious traditions that make this festival unique.

4. The Mighty Coconut Fibre Ropes

The chariots are pulled by thick ropes made of coconut fibre, each with a diameter of about 8 inches. These sturdy ropes play a crucial role in the procession, allowing thousands of devotees to partake in the divine act of pulling the chariots through the streets of Puri. The experience of pulling these ropes is considered highly auspicious and spiritually uplifting by participants of all ages and sects.

5. The Divine Resistance of Lord Jagannath’s Chariot

According to devotees and participants of the Ratha Yatra, an extraordinary phenomenon occurs when the festival begins. Lord Jagannath’s chariot, despite the efforts of hundreds of people pushing and pulling, initially refuses to move. This divine resistance is said to last for a few hours, symbolizing the Lord’s cosmic will. It is only after a significant collective effort that the chariot begins to move, a testament to the divine power and mysticism associated with the festival.

6. The Deity’s Week of Rest

In the week leading up to the Ratha Yatra, the main door of the Jagannath Temple is kept shut. This period is believed to be when Lord Jagannath catches a high fever and requires rest. During this time, the sanctum sanctorum is not open to the public. Once this period of rest is over, the Lord embarks on a journey to his maternal aunt’s house, marking the beginning of the Ratha Yatra.

7. The Promise of Liberation

According to the Shastras, the ancient scriptures, witnessing the Jagannath Deities on the Ratha provides a spiritual boon. The verse “rathe ca vamanam drstva punar janma na vidyate” translates to “one who sees the Jagannatha Deities on the Ratha, there is no rebirth for him.” This belief highlights the immense spiritual significance of the Ratha Yatra, offering devotees the promise of liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth.

The Jagannath Puri Yatra is more than just a festival; it is a profound spiritual journey that connects millions of hearts in devotion and celebration. Along with the above-listed highlights, many other astonishing facts contribute to the unique and mystical charm of this grand event. Whether you are a believer or a curious traveller, once you witness this Ratha Yatra it becomes an experience that leaves a mystic mark on your soul forever.