Bhubaneswar: The vibrant and deeply spiritual world famous Rath Yatra, one of the grandest festivals celebrated in Odisha's Puri, is all set to enchant devotees across the globe. The annual festival, dedicated to Lord Jagannath and his siblings, will commence from July 7 and continue till July 19. This festival is not only a display of Odisha’s rich cultural heritage but also a testament to the unwavering devotion of millions of pilgrims who gather in Puri to witness the divine spectacle.
Key events and schedule:
- July 6: Nabajauban Darshan ( youthful reappearance of deities )
The Rath Yatra will begin with the Nabajauban Darshan, a special occasion where devotees get a glimpse of the deities after their rejuvenation period. This marks the commencement of the grand festivities, filling the atmosphere with a sense of anticipation and joy.
- July 7: Gundicha Jatra or Ghosa Jatra
The main event, Gundicha Jatra, also known as Ghosa Jatra, will take place on the July 7. Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, will be placed on their magnificent chariots and pulled by devotees to the Gundicha Temple. A sea of devotees pulling the chariots is a lifetime experience.
- July 11: Hera Panchami
The festival continues with Hera Panchami on July 11. This unique ritual symbolises the playful anger of Goddess Lakshmi as she visits the Gundicha Temple to see Lord Jagannath. The event is marked by traditional rituals and a symbolic search for the Lord.
- July 15: Bahuda Jatra (Return journey of deities)
On the July 15, the deities will begin their return journey to the Jagannath Temple, known as Bahuda Jatra. The chariots will be pulled back to the main temple, marking the beginning of the concluding phase of the festival.
- July 17: Suna Besha (Golden attire of the deities)
One of the most visually stunning events, Suna Besha, will take place on July 17. The deities will be adorned with gold ornaments and displayed in full regal splendor. This dazzling sight attracts thousands of devotees who come to witness the trinity in their golden glory.
- July 18: Adhara Pana
Adhara Pana, celebrated on July 18, involves the offering of a special sweet drink to the deities. The drink is offered in large earthen pots and symbolises the fulfillment of the deities' wishes.
- July 19: Niladri Bije
The grand finale of the Rath Yatra, Niladri Bije, will occur on July 19. The deities will re-enter the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple, bringing the festival to a ceremonial close. This event is marked by joyous celebrations, signifying the successful completion of the divine journey.
The Puri Rath Yatra 2024 promises to be an extraordinary experience of devotion and cultural splendor. As Puri town prepares to host this monumental event, anticipation and excitement fill the air, inviting everyone to be a part of this divine journey.
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