Significance
Rath Yatra is the chariot festival of Lord Jagannath at Puri, Odisha. The deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken in massive chariots to the Gundicha temple.
Mythology & Legend
According to the Skanda Purana, Lord Jagannath (Krishna) visits his aunt (Gundicha) every year. The pulling of the chariots is considered highly meritorious. The festival is also linked to the legend of Krishna and Balarama going to Mathura in a chariot.
Rituals & Observances
- On the day of the yatra, witness or participate in the chariot pulling at Puri.
- Offer flowers and prasad to the deities; chant Jagannath mantras.
- Pull the rope of the chariot (even symbolically) for merit.
- Visit the Gundicha temple during the seven-day stay; witness the return journey (Bahuda Yatra).
Sacred Mantras
ॐ क्लीं कृष्णाय गोविन्दाय गोपीजन वल्लभाय स्वाहा
oṃ klīṃ kṛṣṇāya govindāya gopījana vallabhāya svāhā
Mantra of Krishna (Jagannath)
Traditional Foods
- ●Mahaprasad
- ●Poda pitha
- ●Khaja
- ●Temple prasad
Regional Variations
Odisha(ରଥ ଯାତ୍ରା)
Puri Rath Yatra, three chariots
West Bengal(রথ যাত্রা)
ISKCON and local Rath Yatras
Gujarat(રથ યાત્રા)
Jagannath temples
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Pull the chariot if possible
- ✓Offer prasad
- ✓Chant Jagannath name
- ✓Respect the crowd
Don'ts
- ✗Do not push or hurt others
- ✗Avoid climbing the chariot without permission
- ✗Do not litter