The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is an ancient Hindu festival dating back to the 12th century. It is held in Puri, Odisha, and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu
The festival features the deities Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, who are taken out of the Jagannath Temple in a grand procession.
The deities are transported on three massive wooden chariots, called Rathas, which are newly constructed every year. These chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees
The destination of the Rath Yatra is the Gundicha Temple, about 3 kilometers from the main Jagannath Temple. The deities stay there for nine days before returning.
The festival symbolizes the journey of Lord Krishna from Gokul to Mathura. It also signifies the divine journey of the deities to visit their birthplace.
The festival has been mentioned in various historical texts, including the Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and Padma Purana, highlighting its long-standing significance.
During British rule in India, the festival gained significant attention from the colonial authorities due to its massive gatherings, sometimes resulting in tragic stampedes.
Today, the Rath Yatra is not just confined to Puri. It is celebrated worldwide, especially by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), spreading the festival’s fame globally.
The festival is a unifying event, bringing together people from different communities, castes, and religions, showcasing the inclusive nature of Hindu worship.