Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most revered and grand festivals in India, celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha. This sacred chariot festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Vishnu), along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. The festival attracts millions of devotees from around the world, who witness the divine journey of the deities from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 Date & Muhurat
In 2025, Jagannath Rath Yatra will be observed on [date], which falls on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. The grand procession starts in the morning and continues throughout the day.
- Pahandi Ritual Timing: [Time]
- Chhera Pahanra (King’s Ritual): [Time]
- Rath Pulling Begins: [Time]
Significance of Jagannath Rath Yatra
- Annual Journey of Lord Jagannath – The Rath Yatra marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, where they stay for seven days.
- Symbol of Universal Brotherhood – The festival signifies unity, devotion, and equality, as people from all walks of life, regardless of caste or creed, come together to pull the sacred chariots.
- Sacred Darshan – It is believed that even a glimpse of Lord Jagannath on the chariot grants liberation (moksha) and immense spiritual blessings.
Jagannath Rath Yatra Rituals & Celebrations
1. Snana Purnima (Ceremonial Bathing Ritual)
- Before the Rath Yatra, the deities are bathed with 108 pots of sacred water during Snana Purnima.
- Following this, they undergo a 15-day period known as Anavasara, where they are kept away from public view for rest and recovery.
2. Chariot Procession (Pahandi Ritual)
- On the day of Rath Yatra, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are carried out from the temple in a grand Pahandi procession.
- Devotees chant “Jai Jagannath” while priests and servitors perform traditional rituals.
3. Chhera Pahanra (King’s Ritual of Sweeping the Chariot)
- The Gajapati Maharaja of Puri performs the Chhera Pahanra ritual, where he sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, signifying humility and devotion.
4. Pulling of the Chariots
- The most awaited moment of Rath Yatra is the pulling of the three massive chariots by thousands of devotees.
- The chariots are made of wood and newly constructed every year.
- The deities travel to the Gundicha Temple, where they stay for a week before returning to the Jagannath Temple in a procession known as Bahuda Yatra.
5. Bahuda Yatra (Return Journey)
- After staying at the Gundicha Temple, the deities return to their original abode in another grand procession.
- A special ritual called Suna Besha is performed, where the deities are adorned with gold ornaments before entering the temple.
Jagannath Rath Yatra Chariots 2025
Each deity has a dedicated chariot with unique features:
| Deity | Chariot Name | Height | Number of Wheels | Main Color |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lord Jagannath | Nandighosa | 45 ft | 16 | Yellow & Red |
| Lord Balabhadra | Taladhwaja | 44 ft | 14 | Blue & Red |
| Devi Subhadra | Darpadalana | 43 ft | 12 | Black & Red |
Spiritual Benefits of Rath Yatra
- Attending Rath Yatra and pulling the chariots is believed to wash away sins and bring good fortune.
- Witnessing the deities during the festival is considered equivalent to a visit to Vaikuntha (Lord Vishnu’s divine abode).
- Devotees experience a deep sense of devotion, unity, and joy during the celebrations.
How to Participate in Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025
- Plan Your Visit Early – Puri gets overcrowded during the festival, so book accommodations in advance.
- Follow the Rituals – Devotees can participate in various temple rituals and donate seva.
- Join the Chariot Pulling – If permitted, devotees can help pull the sacred chariots as a sign of devotion.
Jagannath Rath Yatra is a divine spectacle of devotion, unity, and joy. It is not just a festival but a celebration of faith that connects millions to Lord Jagannath. Whether you visit Puri or celebrate at a local temple, this auspicious event brings immense spiritual blessings and joy.
Jai Jagannath!