Bhubaneswar: A wave of immense devotion and jubilation has swept across Odisha as the much-anticipated Rath Jatra, the annual Chariot Festival of Lord Jagannath and his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, is all set to commence on 27 June with unparalleled fervor.
Good wishes and heartfelt greetings are pouring in from all corners, as millions of devotees converge on Puri and other parts of the state to witness this sacred spectacle.
Governor Dr.Hari Babu Kambhampati, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Leader of Opposition, Naveen Patnaik and other presented good wishes to people of Odisha on the eve of Rath Jatra.
The grand nine-day festival, a cornerstone of Odia culture and faith, marks the annual sojourn of the deities from the 12th-century Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, believed to be their aunt’s home.
The air in Puri is thick with chants of “Jai Jagannath!” as devotees eagerly await the ceremonial pulling of the three colossal, intricately carved chariots – Nandighosa for Lord Jagannath, Taladhwaja for Lord Balabhadra, and Darpadalan for Devi Subhadra.
This year’s Rath Jatra, falling on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Odia month of Ashadha, has seen extensive preparations to accommodate the anticipated millions of pilgrims.
Authorities have put in place elaborate security arrangements, traffic management plans, and even introduced an inter-state bus service, the “Jagannath Express,” to facilitate smoother travel for devotees. The launch of the “Shree Jagannatha Dham” mobile app, offering real-time information on queue times and ritual progress, highlights the blend of tradition with modern convenience.
The rituals leading up to the main Jatra, such as the Snana Purnima (ceremonial bathing of the deities) on June 12th, and Anavasara, where the deities remain in seclusion, have already heightened the spiritual anticipation. Today, the sacred Pahandi ritual, the ceremonial procession of bringing the idols from the temple to their respective chariots, captivated thousands as chants and devotional music filled the atmosphere.
The significance of Rath Jatra extends beyond religious observance. It symbolizes breaking barriers, emphasizing equality as the King of Puri traditionally sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, signifying that all are equal before the Lord. It’s a celebration of universal brotherhood, attracting people of all faiths who come together to witness this epic event.
Throughout Odisha, individuals and organizations are extending warm wishes and prayers for a blessed Rath Jatra. Messages emphasizing peace, prosperity, unity, and spiritual growth are widely shared, reflecting the deep cultural and emotional connect people have with Lord Jagannath.
The deities will reside at the Shree Gundicha Temple for seven days, with various rituals and festivities taking place. The return journey, known as Bahuda Jatra, is scheduled for July 5th, followed by Suna Besha (golden attire) on July 6th, and Niladri Bije (homecoming) on July 7th, which also marks “Rasagola Divas.”
As the gigantic chariots begin their majestic journey, carrying the divine siblings to their temporary abode, the collective prayers and good wishes of millions resonate, hoping for a journey filled with blessings, peace, and spiritual awakening for all.