Puri: The Jagannath Rath Yatra, an annual grand procession honoring Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is set to commence on the second day of Shukla Paksha in the Ashadh month. This year, the revered event will draw millions of devotees to Puri, Odisha, where they will witness the majestic chariots of Lord Jagannath and his siblings.
When Does the Journey Begin?
- Start Time: July 7 at 8:05 AM
- Pause: July 7 at 9:27 AM
- Resume: July 7 at 12:15 PM
- Break: July 7 at 1:37 PM
- Continue: July 7 at 4:39 PM
- End: July 8 at 6:01 AM
Spiritual Significance:
According to the Vedic Panchang, this year’s Rath Yatra will commence on July 7, 2024, at 8:05 AM. The journey continues intermittently, concluding on July 8 at 6:01 AM. Participating in the Rath Yatra is believed to bestow the same spiritual merit as performing 100 yagnas. It is said that merely being part of this procession can mitigate the effects of inauspicious planets and enhance the influence of auspicious ones.
The Three Chariots:
- Lord Jagannath’s Chariot – Nandighosha:
- Height: 42.65 feet
- Wheels: 16
- Colors: Red and yellow
- Charioteer: Daruk
- Balram’s Chariot – Taladhwaj:
- Height: 43.30 feet
- Wheels: 14
- Colors: Red and green
- Charioteer: Matali
- Subhadra’s Chariot – Darpadalan:
- Height: 42.32 feet
- Wheels: 12
- Colors: Red and black
- Charioteer: Arjun
Origins and Mythology:
The Rath Yatra has roots in the 12th century. According to legend, Lord Jagannath’s sister, Subhadra, expressed a desire to see the city. To fulfill her wish, her brothers Krishna and Balram had a chariot prepared, and the three siblings embarked on a city tour, returning to Puri after their excursion. This tradition has continued ever since.
Preparations and Rituals:
Preparations for the Rath Yatra begin on Akshaya Tritiya each year. The chariots, constructed entirely from neem wood (called Daru), are built in Puri. No other materials are used in their construction, preserving the tradition’s purity.
A Visit to Aunt’s House:
During the journey, Lord Jagannath, along with Balram and Subhadra, visits their aunt’s house in Gundicha. They are believed to enjoy various delicacies there, leading to temporary ill health. The siblings stay at their aunt’s place for seven days, recuperating before returning to Puri.
The Golden Broom Ritual:
Before the Rath Yatra begins, the chariots and the path are ceremonially swept with a golden broom, signifying the purity and sanctity of the journey.
Astrological and Spiritual Insights by Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma:
Bhopal resident astrologer and Vastu consultant, Pandit Hitendra Kumar Sharma, provides detailed insights into the spiritual significance of the Rath Yatra. He emphasizes that participating in the procession not only brings blessings but also aligns devotees with positive cosmic energies.
The Jagannath Rath Yatra is more than just a religious event; it is a vibrant celebration of faith, tradition, and community. This 800-year-old festival continues to draw devotees from across the globe, offering a unique glimpse into India’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage. As preparations are underway, anticipation builds for what promises to be a spiritually enriching experience.
