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Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most revered and grandest festivals in India. Celebrated with immense devotion in Puri, Odisha, this chariot festival marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. The festival brings together millions of devotees, tourists, and pilgrims from around the world to witness and participate in this extraordinary spectacle of faith and tradition.
As the streets of Puri fill with chants, music, and the rhythmic pulling of massive wooden chariots, Jagannath Rath Yatra becomes not just a religious event but a cultural phenomenon that unites hearts and souls.
In 2025, Jagannath Rath Yatra will be held on friday, 27th June. The event takes place on the second day (Dwitiya) of the bright fortnight of the Hindu month of Ashadha, which usually falls in June or July. This is the day when the deities are ceremoniously taken out of the temple and placed on grand chariots to begin their journey to Gundicha Temple.
The most famous and significant celebration of Rath Yatra occurs in Puri, a historic coastal town in the state of Odisha. Puri is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and holds deep spiritual importance for Hindus. While Rath Yatra is most elaborately celebrated in Puri, the festival is also observed in other parts of India such as Ahmedabad, Kolkata, and by ISKCON temples across the globe.
According to Hindu mythology, the Rath Yatra is deeply rooted in the legends of Lord Krishna. After Krishna left his earthly form, it is believed that his heart remained intact. That heart was placed inside a wooden idol and became known as Lord Jagannath. Each year, Jagannath, representing Krishna, along with Balabhadra and Subhadra, travels in grand chariots to Gundicha Temple to symbolically revisit his birthplace and meet his devotees.
The journey also signifies Lord Krishna’s desire to visit Vrindavan and reunite with his beloved devotees like Radha and the gopis. The return journey after nine days is called Bahuda Yatra.
Each deity has their own uniquely constructed chariot, built from sacred neem wood and redesigned every year:
Lord Jagannath’s chariot is named Nandighosa. It is approximately 45 feet high and has 16 wheels.
Lord Balabhadra’s chariot is called Taladhwaja. It stands around 44 feet tall with 14 wheels.
Goddess Subhadra’s chariot is named Darpadalana. It is about 43 feet high and has 12 wheels.
These chariots are pulled through the streets of Puri by thousands of devotees using long ropes, creating a spiritual and emotional atmosphere that is unmatched.
One of the most symbolic moments of the Rath Yatra is the ritual of Chhera Pahanra, performed by the Gajapati King of Puri. Dressed in a simple attire, he sweeps the floor of the chariots with a golden broom. This act signifies that in the eyes of Lord Jagannath, everyone is equal—be it a king or a commoner. It is a powerful message of humility and devotion.
Over a million devotees gathering in Puri
Sacred rituals, chants, and bhajans filling the air
An awe-inspiring view of the three majestic chariots
A spiritually charged and emotionally moving atmosphere
Traditional Odia food, art, and cultural performances
By Air: The nearest airport is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar, about 60 kilometers from Puri.
By Train: Puri Railway Station is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, and Chennai.
By Road: Puri can be reached via buses or taxis from Bhubaneswar and other cities in Odisha.
Plan your travel and accommodation well in advance
Wear comfortable clothes and stay hydrated
Respect local customs and maintain cleanliness
Be cautious in large crowds and follow safety guidelines
Carry essentials like sunscreen, cap, and water bottles
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 is not just a religious festival but a spiritual experience that connects millions through devotion, culture, and tradition. Whether you are a pilgrim, a photographer, or a traveler in search of meaning, witnessing this festival in Puri is a journey into the heart of India’s ancient and eternal soul.
As the chariots roll and the chants rise, you don’t just watch a procession—you become a part of something far greater than yourself. So mark your calendar for 27th June 2025, and be ready to feel the divine rhythm of one of the world’s oldest and most revered festivals.
Jagannath Rath Yatra is a famous Hindu festival celebrated in Puri, Odisha, where Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, is taken out of the Jagannath Temple in grand wooden chariots and paraded through the city to Gundicha Temple. This procession symbolizes the Lord visiting his devotees.
Rath Yatra is mainly celebrated in the state of Odisha, with the grandest celebration taking place in Puri. The festival is also observed in other states like Gujarat and West Bengal, and globally in ISKCON temples.
The Rath Yatra marks Lord Jagannath’s annual journey to the Gundicha Temple, believed to be his aunt’s house. The purpose is to give darshan (divine glimpse) to all devotees, including those who may not be allowed inside the main temple.
According to mythology, Lord Krishna’s heart remained on Earth after his death and was placed inside the idol of Lord Jagannath. Every year, Lord Jagannath, along with Balabhadra and Subhadra, visits the Gundicha Temple in memory of his time in Vrindavan. The Rath Yatra reenacts this sacred journey.
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