Bhubaneswar, June 28: The Rath Yatra is one of the most celebrated festivals in Odisha, India, and it draws a significant amount of religious and cultural attention. The festival is particularly known for the grand procession in Puri, the most famous Rath Yatra, but it's also observed in various parts of the state. Here's an overview of the Rath Yatra in Odisha:
Rath Yatra at Athgarh
The Rath Yatra at Athgarh concluded today, attracting a large number of devotees. The procession, which started as per the scheduled time after the designated rituals, saw a display of immense devotion as the devotees pulled the chariot.
Various Kirtan groups from different locations contributed to the spiritual atmosphere by singing devotional hymns throughout the entire stretch of road. During the event, the Sri Jagannath Seva Sanstha organized a Bhajan Samaroh at the Old Bus Stand in Lakshmibazar, Athgarh, which was inaugurated by Athgarh Sub-Collector Prahlad Narayan Sharma and BJP leader Abhay Barik, who participated as guests of honor.
A unique feature of this year's Rath Yatra was the division of the chariot procession. While men from the Jagannath Ballabh Math took charge of pulling the main chariot and the smaller chariot, which is considered sacred and symbolically represents a feminine form, was pulled solely by women devotees.
The event was marked by a deep sense of spiritual unity and reverence, with people from all walks of life coming together to celebrate the annual festival dedicated to Lord Jagannath.
Rath Yatra at Patalipura, Subarnapur
The Rath Yatra was celebrated with immense joy and enthusiasm at Patalipura in Subarnapur district. The event took place at the famous Chhalia Hill temple, where the procession began from the shrine. Accompanied by devotees, the Rath Yatra made its way down nearly 200 feet, with the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra riding on the chariot.
Devotees joined the procession with great zeal, creating a lively and spiritual atmosphere. The chanting of "Hari Bol" and the sound of bells and drums added to the divine ambiance as the procession moved forward. The vibrant kirtans and music filled the air, as the procession passed through scenic pathways amidst nature.
This unique Rath Yatra experience attracted a massive crowd of devotees, eager to witness the divine journey. People gathered on the hillsides and roads to catch a glimpse of the chariot procession, celebrating the festival with devotion and excitement.
The Rath Yatra at Patalipura has a special significance, as it commemorates a historic event that began 144 years ago when the idols from the Puri Jagannath Temple were consecrated at the Patalipura temple. The event is celebrated according to the rituals of the original Jagannath Temple.
Rath Yatra in Chhatia, Jagatsinghpur
The world-renowned Rath Yatra was celebrated with much grandeur and devotion in the Jagatsinghpur district, specifically in the town of Chhatia, the annual chariot procession took place with immense splendor and religious fervor. The local administration took meticulous steps to ensure tight security for the event, making it a smooth and safe experience for all participants.
The procession began from the nearby Jagannath Temple at Chhatia Kunjia Chhak, where the fourth deity idol was placed on the chariot. The chariot was then ceremoniously drawn by devotees, with special rituals carried out by the temple priests. The temple servitors, Upendra Ojha, and others were also seen performing the ritualistic tasks.
After the idol was placed on the chariot, over a hundred devotees from the Nadiya region participated in the process of moving the chariot. They carried out the symbolic ritual of pushing the chariot, showing their deep respect and devotion to Lord Jagannath. The procession then began its long journey from Chhatia to the Mausima Temple at Badaghumuri, covering a distance of 12 kilometers.
Rath Yatra in Gunpur, Rayagada
The distinct Rath Yatra in Gunpur, Rayagada, was celebrated with immense fervor and devotion. The town is home to two temples, one large and the other smaller, each hosting a chariot procession. The larger chariot, representing the bigger temple, was pulled by men, while the smaller chariot from the smaller temple was drawn by women devotees.
The procession began with the large chariot being pulled toward the Gundicha Temple, and once it reached there, the smaller chariot was then drawn by the women to the same temple. Though there was a slight delay in the procession, the rituals were observed meticulously, and the idols were placed on the chariot after proper prayers and rituals.
The favorable weather conditions contributed to a large turnout of devotees, making the event even more vibrant.
Rath Yatra in Jatni Block
The annual Rath Yatra in Jatni was held with grandeur, adhering to all religious rituals and traditions. The event saw large gatherings of devotees, with the air filled with the sounds of bells, drums, conchs, and the chanting of "Hare Krishna, Hare Rama" as the procession made its way through various locations.
This year, the Rath Yatra took place at the Jagannath Temple situated atop the Jamukoli Panchayat’s Labanagiri in the area. The celebrations began with the morning rituals, including the offering of incense and prayers to the sun. Following these, the idols were placed on the chariot, and the procession commenced with a grand "Chaturdhamurti" worship ceremony.
After completion of the traditional rituals, including "Cherapahara" and other formalities, the chariot left the Labanagiri and made its way to the Mangala Temple in the nearby village of Panchgaon. The chariot procession traveled a long distance, reaching the temple amidst vibrant celebrations.
