Manashimaya
Today, Sunday, 7th July, marks the beginning of the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath in Puri, Odisha. This grand festival holds immense significance in Hinduism, drawing millions of devotees from around the globe. The Rath Yatra 2024: Commencement of the Sacred Journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Gundicha Temple Today is a momentous event that symbolises divine grace and community spirit.
Every year, the Rath Yatra is celebrated on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha, according to the Hindu calendar. The festival continues until the tenth day of Shukla Paksha. During this period, Lord Jagannath, along with his sister Subhadra and brother Balabhadra, leaves the Jagannath Temple to visit the Gundicha Temple, considered to be their aunt’s house, where they rest for several days. This journey, known as the Rath Yatra 2024: Commencement of the Sacred Journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Gundicha Temple Today, is steeped in tradition and devotion.
The three deities travel in distinct chariots, each with its unique features. Lord Jagannath’s chariot, Nandighosha, is adorned in red and yellow, standing at 44 feet 2 inches high with 16 wheels. Balabhadra’s chariot, Taldhwaj, is red and green, 43 feet 3 inches high, and has 14 wheels. Subhadra’s chariot, Darpadalan, is either black or blue, 42 feet 3 inches high, and has 12 wheels. This procession, Rath Yatra 2024: Commencement of the Sacred Journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Gundicha Temple Today, is a magnificent sight, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Odisha.
The journey begins with the ceremonial cleaning of the path by the Gajapati King of Puri, known as ‘Chhera Pahanra,’ using a golden broom. This ritual underscores the humility and devotion that characterise the Rath Yatra. Devotees eagerly participate in pulling the chariots, a privilege believed to bestow immense spiritual merit. The Rath Yatra 2024: Commencement of the Sacred Journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Gundicha Temple Today is an act of faith that brings devotees closer to the divine.
According to mythology, the origins of the Rath Yatra date back to when Lord Jagannath, to fulfill his sister Subhadra’s wish to see Dwarka, took her on a chariot ride around the city. This event marked the beginning of the Rath Yatra, a tradition that continues to this day. The festival is also deeply connected to the legend of Lord Krishna, Balabhadra, and Subhadra’s unique forms in Jagannath Puri, as revealed by the sage Narada.
The imperfect idols of the gods, created by the heavenly builder Vishwakarma, contribute even more to the festival’s enigmatic quality. Vishwakarma left the statues incomplete when King Indradyumna, eager to observe the progress, opened the door too soon. Even now, people worship these unfinished idols as a reminder of their followers’ unwavering faith and devotion.
The Rath Yatra 2024: Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra’s Sacred Journey to Gundicha Temple Begins Today is a cultural extravaganza that brings people together in joyful celebration, in addition to being a religious festival. The sounds of drums, trumpets, and conch shells fill the air as the chariots move through Puri’s streets, evoking a heavenly pleasure. The deep spirituality that infuses the festival and the eternal memory of Lord Jagannath are both demonstrated by this holy pilgrimage.
In conclusion, the Rath Yatra 2024: Commencement of the Sacred Journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to Gundicha Temple Today is a celebration of faith, devotion, and cultural heritage. It is a time when the divine descends to mingle with the mortal, and the streets of Puri become a tapestry of vibrant colours, joyous sounds, and profound spirituality.
