Every year, the sacred city of Puri, Odisha, witnesses one of the most vibrant and spiritually charged festivals of India – Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025. This grand chariot procession dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra draws millions of devotees from around the world. In 2025, the yatra promises to be even more majestic as it returns with full glory post-pandemic restrictions.
Significance of Rath Yatra
The word “Rath Yatra” translates to “Chariot Festival.” It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings, from their temple to the Gundicha Temple, 3 km away.
Duration: 9 days
Start Date: July 6, 2025 (tentative)
Key Deities: Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra
Location: Puri, Odisha
Grand Chariots
Nandighosa: Lord Jagannath’s chariot (45 feet tall, 16 wheels)
Taladhwaja: Balabhadra’s chariot
Darpadalana: Subhadra’s chariot
Before the Yatra:
Snana Purnima: The deities are bathed with 108 pots of water.
Anasara: A 15-day period where the deities “fall ill” and stay inside the temple.
During the Yatra:
Chhera Pahanra: The Gajapati King of Puri sweeps the chariot floors with a golden broom—a symbol of humility.
Pulling of Chariots: Devotees pull the massive chariots with thick ropes while chanting devotional songs and hymns.
Why people’s Attend
Spiritual Connection: Belief that pulling the chariot earns blessings equal to a hundred pilgrimages.
Cultural Marvel: Dance, folk music, and Odissi performances are held throughout.
Community Bonding: The festival brings together people across castes, religions, and countries.
Global Celebrations
Although the main festival happens in Puri, Jagannath Rath Yatra is now celebrated in major cities across India and abroad – including Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Delhi, New York, London, and Sydney.
Rath Yatra 2025 Dates
Snana Purnima: June 20, 2025
Rath Yatra Begins: July 6, 2025
Bahuda Yatra (Return Journey): July 14, 2025
Suna Besha (Golden Attire): July 15, 2025
Niladri Bije (Return to Temple): July 16, 2025
ALSO READ: The Family Man Season 3: Teaser Out