Rath Yatra 2024 Date in Puri Jagannath Dham, Tithi Time, Significance
Posted on June 30, 2024
Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a significant and vibrant Hindu festival held annually in Puri, Odisha. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. The festival attracts millions of devotees and tourists from all over the world.
Rath Yatra 2024 Date: July 7, Sunday.
Tithi Timing: July 07, 04:26 AM – July 08, 04:59 AM.
The Festival
Rath Yatra marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from their abode in the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, located about 3 kilometers away. This journey symbolizes their visit to their birthplace. The deities are placed on grand, intricately decorated chariots and pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets of Puri.
Chariots
-
Nandighosa: The chariot of Lord Jagannath, is 45 feet high with 16 wheels.
-
Taladhwaja: The chariot of Lord Balabhadra, is 44 feet high with 14 wheels.
-
Darpadalana: The chariot of Goddess Subhadra, is 43 feet high with 12 wheels.
Each chariot is constructed anew every year from specific types of wood and adorned with colorful fabrics and designs.
Rituals and Significance
The Rath Yatra begins with the ceremonial bathing of the deities, known as Snana Purnima. After this, the deities are kept in isolation for a period known as Anavasara. During this time, it is believed that they fall ill and recover before the Yatra.
On the day of the Rath Yatra, the Gajapati King of Puri performs the Chhera Pahanra, a ritual of sweeping the chariots with a golden broom, signifying that everyone is equal in the eyes of the Lord.
Journey to Gundicha Temple
As the deities embark on their journey, devotees pull the chariots with ropes amidst chanting, singing, and dancing. The atmosphere is filled with devotional fervor. The deities stay at the Gundicha Temple for nine days before making the return journey, known as Bahuda Yatra, to the Jagannath Temple.
Cultural Impact
Rath Yatra is not only a religious event but also a cultural spectacle. It showcases the rich traditions and heritage of Odisha. The festival unites people from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing communal harmony and devotion.
Conclusion
The Rath Yatra of Puri is a grand celebration of faith, culture, and tradition. It offers a unique experience to witness the divine journey of Lord Jagannath and his siblings, leaving an indelible impression on the hearts of the devotees.
Categories: Festival Dates & Time
Tags: Hindu festivals 2024 dates
