India celebrates the colourful Rathyatra celebration in 2024 during the monsoon season. Join millions of devotees on a spiritual journey at this yearly event called the 'Festival of Chariots'. The event, which happens on the second day of the month of Ashadha, is a visual extravaganza that millions of visitors and devotees from all over the world come to see.

The "Festival of Chariots" is mostly connected to the Hindu and Buddhist communities in India. The idols of Lord Jagannath and his siblings are decorated and carried by hundreds of devotees who travel three kilometres between the Jagannath Temple and the Gundicha Temple. On the second day of the light fortnight in the month of Ashadha, the celebration is held.

History of Rathyatra

In India, the Festival of Chariots, or Rathyatra, is a major religious and cultural occasion. It commemorates the migration of Lord Jagannath from his temple in Puri, Odisha, to his rural garden palace. The celebration represents Lord Krishna's yearly trip from Vrindavan to Mathura with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra. Thousands of followers pull elaborately adorned chariots that are brimming with colour, music, and a sense of camaraderie during the event. Derived from the Sanskrit language, Lord Jagannath is regarded as a manifestation of Lord Vishnu. The roots of the event may be traced back to the 12th century, when three chariots pulling Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and his sister Subhadra, made a 3-kilometre journey to the Gundicha Temple. The origins of the event may be traced back to Hindu mythology, whereby Lord Jagannath, a manifestation of Lord Krishna, expressed his yearly want to visit Mathura. Since this custom has been followed for generations, Rathyatra is an important religious and cultural occasion.

Rathyatra 2024 Date

On July 7, 2024, Rathyatra 2024 is slated to take place. Millions of devotees are anticipated to participate in this big event. Millions of devotees anxiously anticipate the event, which starts on June 29 and culminates with the return journey, Bahuda Yatra, on July 7. They go from far and wide to see the great procession and festivities.

Preparations and Rituals Leading Up to the Yatra

In Hinduism, the Rath Yatra is an important occasion that is celebrated with several rites and rituals. Two weeks before the festival, on Snana Purnima, a ceremonial bath using 108 pots of cleansed water heralds the start of the celebrations. To develop anticipation among believers, the deities are kept in seclusion for fifteen days, a practice known as Anasara.

Netrotsava, also known as the "Festival of the Eyes," is held the day before the Rath Yatra. It is believed that painting the eyes of the gods represents their recuperation and preparedness for the voyage. This ritual raises the spirits of the followers and represents the rising of the gods.

On the day of the Rath Yatra, there is a Grand Procession. The conch shells reverberate, the drums and bells beat in unison, and the rising voices of the devotees create an electrifying atmosphere. The gods are carried from the Jagannath Temple's inner chamber and set atop their appropriate chariots.

The Chhera Pahara, one of the most important Rath Yatra rites, is carried out by the King of Puri. He sweeps the chariots with a broom with a golden handle and sprinkles water made of sandalwood, symbolising equality and humility in the eyes of the holy. The idea that all people are equal before Lord Jagannath, regardless of social status, is emphasised by this deed.

The exquisite wooden chariots that are utilised in the Rath Yatra are uniquely decorated and have unique features. With 16 enormous wheels and a height of 44 feet, Lord Jagannath's (Nandighosa) chariot is the biggest. With 14 wheels and a height of forty-three feet, Lord Balabhadra (Taladhwaja) is clad with crimson and blue canopies. Darpadalana, the goddess Subhadra, is 42 feet tall and has 12 wheels. She is adorned with crimson and black canopies.

The Bahuda Yatra, the trek back to the Jagannath Temple, is just as magnificent as the original voyage. The chariots stop at the Mausi Maa Temple en route back, where the gods are given Poda Pitha, a unique sweet pancake that represents the Lord's affection for modest and unpretentious offerings.

Significance of Rathyatra

An important event in Hindu mythology and culture is the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra, which features the procession of deities on specially made chariots known as Raths. People from all walks of life are drawn to this celebration of religion, dedication, and cultural heritage. The holiday is very spiritual because taking part in the procession can atone for sins and bestow benefits from God. Along with showcasing India's rich cultural diversity, the celebrations feature traditional dance, music, and art forms. The festival's origins may be found in old Hindu texts that explain the deities' rites and divine journeys, such as the Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and Padma Purana. The celebration encourages piety, harmony, and dedication among followers since it is

Rath Yatra Celebrations across India in 2024

An important occasion in Odisha is the Rath Yatra, which is marked by a convoy of chariots bringing the idols of Lord Jagannath to the Gundicha Temple. Religious pictures are adorned on the chariots, which were constructed two months ahead of the 'Ashadha Shukla Paksha Dwitiya' by indigenous Puri artisans. Several hundred followers drive the chariots. The idols are bathed in holy water upon arriving at the Gundicha Temple, and they rest for about a week before making their way back to the Jagannath Temple. Ever since the 'Hare Krishna movement' began in the late 1960s, Rath Yatra has been observed worldwide. Today, a chariot procession of Lord Jagannath is organised by Hindus and Buddhists all over the world to commemorate this event. Rewind Snacks are ideal for sharing during Rathyatra, but it's important to have a balanced diet while celebrating.

Conclusion

An important religious and cultural occasion in India, the Jagannath Puri Rathyatra 2024 marks the moving of Lord Jagannath from his Puri temple to his garden palace. The Hindu mythology-based celebration includes customary dancing, music, art, and ceremonies. It draws millions of followers from all over the world, and Lord Jagannath's chariot procession is a part of the celebration. A balanced diet is necessary to preserve health and energy levels, hence it is advised to share Rewind snacks throughout the event.