Imagine a sea of devotees, their hearts brimming with devotion, as they throng the streets of Puri in Odisha. It is one of the grandest spectacles in India – the Jagannath Rath Yatra. This vibrant festival, held annually. Millions come together to witness and partake in the procession of the revered deities. Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, as they are majestically pulled on elaborately decorated chariots. The atmosphere is electric with chants, music, and the sheer energy of collective faith, making it a unique and awe-inspiring celebration of spirituality and tradition.

Here are some of the interesting facts about the Rath Yatra;

Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra – the three deities of the Jagannath Temple travel in three different chariots. Their chariots are named Nandighosha, Taladhwaja and Devadalana respectively. That is why Rath Yatra is also called the Festival of Chariots.

Lord Jagannath’s Chariot Nandighosha runs on as many as 18 wheels, while 16 wheels drive Lord Balaram’s Chariot Taladhwaja, and Subhadra’s Chariot Padmadhwaja has 14 wheels.

Every year new chariots are constructed, and the construction begins on Akshaya Tritiya. It takes 2 months for 200 artisans to construct the raths. The design and dimensions of the chariots never change. More than 100 carpenters work on over 1000 wooden logs to construct the chariots.

The ropes used for pulling the chariot is made of coconut fiber and 8 inches thick in diameter.

In the Jagannath Rath Yatra, the Deities are carried to Temple of Gundicha, the maternal aunt of Lord Jagannatha. They stay for 9 days, and the return event is called ‘Bahuda Rath Yatra.’

During the stay at Gundicha temple, Lord Jagannatha is offered ‘poda pitha’ a special pancake. Without having it Lord doesn’t return to His temple.

The Rath Yatra begins only after the king of Puri sweeps the road with a golden broom known as “Chhera Pahanra”. The act of sweeping the chariot with a golden-handled broom signifies the cleansing of impurities both physical and spiritual, from the path of Lord Jagannath.

As written in the scriptures “Rathe ca vamanam drstva punar janma na vidyate,” one who sees the Jagannath Deities on the Rath, there is no rebirth for him.