Puri Jagannatha Ratha Yatra
Every year, within the confines of the ancient city of Puri in Odisha, India, the Jagannatha Ratha Yatra takes centre stage. This revered event, steeped in tradition and mythology, attracts millions of devotees and tourists worldwide.
It offers a rare opportunity for spectators to witness the divine procession of
- Lord Jagannatha (Krishna),
- Lord Balabhadra (Balarama), and
- Devi Subhadra (Sister of both Krishna and Balarama)
outside the temple precincts.
The ‘yatra’ symbolizes the accessibility of divinity and unites people from diverse backgrounds in shared reverence. With great fanfare and devotion, Puri becomes one of the world’s grandest religious spectacles. The sacred journey of the deities inspires awe and spiritual fulfilment among the devotees.
Through centuries, the Ratha Yatra has retained its significance as a testament to religious faith and cultural heritage.
Puri Jagannatha Rath Yatra is on 07 – July – 2024
Unique Significance of Ratha Yatra
The Ratha Yatra holds a unique significance owing to its distinctiveness from the other festivals. Unlike traditional celebrations confined within temple walls, the Ratha Yatra allows the devotees to actively engage in the divine journey of the deities. It offers a rare opportunity for direct ‘darshan’ of the gods outside temple premises, symbolizing the accessibility and universality of divinity.
The procession embodies a sense of inclusivity, welcoming people from all walks of life to participate in the sacred event. Through the Ratha Yatra, devotees hold a deeper connection with the divine, fostering spiritual growth and fulfilment.
Special Prasadams and their Significance
One of the highlights of the Ratha Yatra is the distribution of Mahaprasad, considered to be immensely sacred and imbued with divine blessings. The Mahaprasad consists of various delicacies such as khichidi, dalma, and sweet dishes like panna, khaja, and rasabali among others. It is believed that partaking of this prasadam purifies the soul and bestows blessings upon the devotees.
The act of offering and sharing prasadam fosters a sense of community and unity among devotees, transcending social barriers and distinctions. Despite the fluctuating number of pilgrims visiting the sacred temple every year, including the period of Ratha Yatra or the worship days of Lord Jagannath, the quantity of food cooked for the Lord’s prasadam remains consistent daily.
Remarkably, there is no wastage of food. Every devotee is always provided with sufficient food.
Myths and Beliefs associated with Ratha Yatra
Participating in the Ratha Yatra is believed to bestow immense spiritual merit and blessings upon the devotees. It is said that those who pull the ropes of the chariots or even catch a glimpse of the deities during the procession are liberated from their sins and granted divine grace.
Moreover, it is believed that anyone who dies during the Ratha Yatra attains ‘moksha’ and is freed from the cycle of birth and death.
Spiritual Etiquette for Devotees During Ratha Yatra
While participating in the Ratha Yatra, devotees are expected to adhere to specific customs and rituals as a sign of reverence towards the deities. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- One should ensure personal cleanliness and purity by bathing before joining the ‘yatra.’
- One should observe and comply with the instructions provided by the priests and authorities involved in the procession.
- One should offer prayers to the deities with sincerity and humility, seeking their blessings.
- One should avoid consuming alcohol or non-vegetarian food during the ‘yatra,’ otherwise, it is deemed disrespectful to the gods.
- One should refrain from wearing footwear within the temple premises and in the procession of Ratha Yatra.
The Puri Jagannatha Ratha Yatra is more than a religious procession. It is a testament to the enduring power of faith, the richness of cultural heritage and the universal quest for spiritual fulfilment. As the majestic chariots roll through the streets of Puri, they carry with them the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of millions, illuminating the path towards the divine grace of Lord Jagannath and eternal bliss.
If one ever visits the sacred city of Puri during the auspicious month of Ashadha, one should not miss the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of Lord Jagannatha’s Ratha Yatra as it is not merely a journey of gods, but a true journey of the soul.
Information regarding Travel
Puri has excellent transportation facilities like road, rail and air. Travellers can access the city conveniently through Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, situated about 60 kilometres away.
The Railway Station in Puri serves as a pivotal junction, facilitating regular train services from major cities across India.
Additionally, Puri is easily accessible by road, with well-maintained national highways and state roads connecting it to neighbouring cities and towns. Visitors can avail themselves of frequent bus services, ensuring hassle-free travel to Puri.
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