As Ratha Yatra 2023 draws near, there is a lot of curiosity among devotees of Lord Jagannath to know how the festival is celebrated in Odisha’s Puri. The Jagannath temple, also known as Srimandir, being the seat of Holy Trinity — Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra – is a huge draw for people across the world who throng the Holy Town of Puri to witness the chariots of the Lords rolling on the streets.
Embarking on a voyage to the captivating world of Ratha Yatra in Odisha promises an enthralling experience like no other. People immerse themselves in devotion, spirituality, and cultural splendour as ancient traditions and rituals are brought to life.
Ratha Yatra 2023 will be held June 20 (Tuesday) this year. Let’s explore some interesting facets of the mega-festival.
Cracking the code: Decoding the secrets of Ratha Yatra
It is difficult to fathom the mysteries, explore the depths of its significance and understand the intricacies surrounding this centuries-old festival before one sets foot in Odisha’s Puri to experience Ratha Yatra in person. This festival helps to discover how Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Subhadra embark on their annual sojourn from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple in the Holy Town.
A pilgrimage to Puri: The epicentre of Ratha Yatra
During this festival, Puri — Odisha’s lively seaside city — transforms into a spiritual centre. This mediaeval town transforms into a heaven for devotees of Lord Jagannath during the festival. People cutting across age, sex and language barriers reach the town in millions to see the Lords seated aboard their chariots as Hindus believe a glimpse during Ratha Yatra will bring them salvation and free their souls from the infinite loop of rebirths.
Preparing for the spectacle: When and where to witness Ratha Yatra
Srigundicha Yatra, also known as Ratha Yatra will be held June 20, 2023, Tuesday.
Herapanchami in Srimandir will be held June 24, 2023, Saturday.
Sandhya Darshana will be held June 27, Tuesday.
Bahuda Yatra will be held June 28, 2023, Wednesday.
Sunabesha will be held June 29, 2023, Thursday.
Adharapana will be held June 30, 2023 Friday.
Niladri Bije will be held July 1, 2023 Saturday.
The majestic chariots: Getting up close and personal
The splendour of the chariots is one of the hallmarks of Ratha Yatra. The chariots of Ratha Yatra in Puri are a sight to behold. They are massive, ornately decorated structures built every year and are pulled by thousands of devotees. The chariots serve as a reminder of the rich culture and heritage of Odisha. Getting up close and personal with the chariots is an unforgettable experience for most. Devotion apart, this is a chance to see the craftsmanship and artistry that goes into their creation, and to feel the excitement and energy of the festival.
Also read: Odisha CM seeks cooperation from stakeholders for smooth conduct of Rath Yatra
Joining the devotional fervour: Participating in Ratha Yatra
One cannot help but immerse himself in the sea of devotion that engulfs Ratha Yatra and the rituals, prayers, and chants that accompany the chariot procession. The profound bond between the deities and their devotees as they express their love and devotion is a sight to behold. Devotees can pull the chariots, sing devotional songs, dance in ecstasy. offer prayers to the Lords on the move and attend religious ceremonies being held on the sidelines by various religious sects. Some, meanwhile, make it a point to visit the Bay Of Bengal, also known as Mahodadhi in the town, to take a holy dip.
Beyond the Chariots: Exploring cultural extravaganza
Ratha Yatra extends beyond the chariot procession. The multifaceted cultural extravaganza that surrounds the festival includes indulging in delectable traditional cuisine, experiencing vibrant music and dance performances all along the Badadanda where the chariots travel. Hundreds of groups from across the country put up stalls to showcase their culture along the way, which can be seen as a great cultural melting pot uniting the country.
Also read: Fake Mahaprasad racket unearthed in Puri
PNN