Ratha Yatra Dates & Travel Advisory
Ratha Yatra, also known as Gundicha Yatra or the Festival of Chariots, is one of the most significant and vibrant Hindu festivals. Celebrated annually in Puri, Odisha, this festival marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. In 2024, Ratha Yatra will be celebrated on July 7th. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the dates, rituals, and what devotees can experience during the festival.
Key Dates and Rituals
1. Snana Purnima (Bathing Festival) - June 20, 2024
On this day, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are brought out for a ceremonial bath. This ritual is believed to purify the deities and prepare them for the upcoming journey. After the bath, the deities are kept in isolation for a period known as ‘Anavasara’ due to their supposed illness caused by the bath.
What Devotees Can See:
- The deities are bathed with 108 pitchers of water drawn from the Golden Well.
- The grand procession of the idols to the bathing platform (Snana Bedi).
2. Netro usava (Re-emergence of the Deities) - July 6, 2024
Also known as Nava Yaubana Darshan, this marks the first public appearance of the deities after their recovery from the bath. This day is significant as it is the day before the actual Ratha Yatra.
What Devotees Can See:
- The first glimpse of the rejuvenated deities after their period of isolation.
3. Ratha Yatra (Gundicha Yatra) - July 7, 2024
The main event where the deities are taken out in a grand procession to the Gundicha Temple, about 3 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple. The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees, which is considered highly auspicious. To read more about Ratha yatra Click Here.
What Devotees Can See:
- The grand procession with beautifully decorated chariots.
- The ceremonial sweeping of the chariots by the King of Puri (Chhera Panhara).
- Devotees pulling the massive chariots with ropes.
4. Hera Panchami - July 11, 2024
This ritual takes place on the fifth day after Ratha Yatra, symbolizing Goddess Lakshmi’s visit to the Gundicha Temple to see Lord Jagannath.
What Devotees Can See:
- The enactment of the mythological story of Goddess Lakshmi’s visit.
- Special rituals and offerings at the Gundicha Temple.
5. Bahuda Yatra (Return Journey) - July 15, 2024
The Bahuda Yatra marks the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra to the Jagannath Temple from the Gundicha Temple. This procession is a mirror of the Rath Yatra, with the deities retracing their steps back to their sanctum. During this journey, the chariots halt at the Mausi Maa Temple, where the deities are offered Poda Pitha, a special sweet. Devotees can witness the same fervor and excitement as the initial journey, with thousands gathering to participate in the rituals and pull the chariots
What Devotees Can See:
- Another grand procession similar to Ratha Yatra.
- The deities stopping at the Mausi Maa Temple for offerings of Poda Pitha, a traditional sweet.
6. Suna Besha (Golden Attire of the Deities) - July 16, 2024
Suna Besha, also known as Raja Besha or Raja Rajeswar Besha, is a significant ritualistic adornment of Lord Jagannath and his sibling deities Balabhadra and Subhadra in the Jagannath Temple of Puri, Odisha, India. This ceremonial attire is particularly renowned for its grandeur and is observed on special occasions, drawing devotees and tourists alike from all over.
Here are some key points about Suna Besha:
Occurrence and Significance: Suna Besha typically occurs on specific auspicious dates in the Hindu calendar, notably during the annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival). It is also performed on other significant occasions like major festivals or celestial events.
Adornments and Rituals: During Suna Besha, the deities are adorned with gold jewelry and ornaments, symbolizing their royal stature and divine magnificence. Lord Jagannath is dressed in a dazzling golden attire, while Balabhadra and Subhadra also receive elaborate gold decorations. The deities’ eyes are particularly adorned with large golden eyes, called “Chakshu Besha,” adding to their splendor.
Cultural and Religious Importance: The ritual holds immense cultural and religious importance among the people of Odisha. It is believed that witnessing Suna Besha brings immense spiritual merit (punya) to devotees. The opulence and beauty of the deities during this attire are considered an auspicious sight that blesses the viewers.
Traditional Practices: The preparations for Suna Besha begin days in advance, with artisans and craftsmen meticulously crafting the intricate gold ornaments and jewelry. These are handed down through generations of artisans who specialize in this sacred art.
Devotee Participation: Devotees eagerly await the opportunity to witness Suna Besha, often traveling from far and wide to experience the divine splendor of Lord Jagannath and seek blessings during this auspicious occasion. The atmosphere around the temple during Suna Besha is festive and spiritually charged.
Symbolism and Mythology: Suna Besha is deeply rooted in mythology and symbolism. It is said to symbolize the divine wealth and prosperity of Lord Jagannath, signifying his status as the sovereign ruler (Raja Rajeswar). The use of gold reflects the transcendental opulence of the divine realm.
Overall, Suna Besha is not just a ceremonial display but a profound spiritual experience for devotees, showcasing the grandeur and majesty of Lord Jagannath and reinforcing the cultural richness of Odisha’s religious traditions. It remains one of the most awaited and revered rituals in the Jagannath Temple calendar, embodying the blend of artistry, devotion, and faith that characterize Hindu religious practices.
What Devotees Can See:
- The deities in their magnificent golden attire.
- Special prayers and rituals performed by the priests.
7. Adhara Pana - July 17, 2024
This ritual involves the offering of a special sweet drink to the deities.
What Devotees Can See:
- The large pots filled with sweet drink placed before the deities.
- The deities symbolically partaking in the drink.
8. Niladri Bije (Return of the Deities to the Main Temple) - July 18, 2024
The deities are finally taken back into the sanctum of the Jagannath Temple, marking the end of the Ratha Yatra festivities.
What Devotees Can See:
- The concluding rituals as the deities are taken back to their original seats.
- The grand celebration marking the end of the festival.
Detailed Schedule on Ratha Yatra Day (July 7, 2024)
- Mangala Alati: 6:00 AM
- Mailam: 6:10 AM
- Tadapa Lagi: 6:30 AM
- Rosha Homa: 6:30 AM
- Abakasha: 7:00 AM
- Surya Puja and Dwarapala Puja: 7:30 AM
- Gopala Ballav and Sakala Dhupa (Khechudi Bhoga): 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
- Ratha Pratisha: 9:30 AM
- Mangarpana: 9:45 AM
- Pahandi: 10:00 AM
- Pahandi Sesha: 1:00 PM
- Madan Mohan Vije: 1:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- Chita Lagi: 1:30 PM
- Vesha Sesha: 1:45 PM
- Chhera Panhara: 2:00 PM
- Charamala Phita, Ghoda Sarathi Lagi: 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
- Rathatana (Pulling of the Chariots): 3:30 PM
What to Expect During the Festival
Grand Processions and Rituals: Visitors can witness the majestic chariots, each uniquely decorated, as they are pulled through the streets of Puri. The atmosphere is charged with devotion, music, and the chanting of hymns. The most significant chariots are Nandighosa (Jagannath’s chariot), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra’s chariot), and Darpadalana (Subhadra’s chariot).
Cultural Performances: During the festival, various cultural performances, including traditional Odissi dance and music, are staged. These performances offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Odisha.
Spiritual Vibes: The Rath Yatra is not just a visual spectacle but also a deeply spiritual experience. Participating in the chariot-pulling is believed to cleanse one’s sins and bring divine blessings.
Travel and Traffic Advisory
Given the massive influx of devotees and tourists, the local authorities, including the police and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, issue several advisories to ensure the smooth conduct of the festival.
- Accommodation: Book your accommodations well in advance. The official websites of the temple administration provide options for booking rooms in Neelachal Bhakta Niwas and other facilities. Be wary of fraudulent websites and always book through the official portals.
- Transportation: Expect heavy traffic and crowded streets during the festival. Special train services and additional flights are usually arranged to accommodate the rush. It is advisable to use public transport or special shuttle services provided for the festival.
- Security Measures: Enhanced security measures will be in place, including CCTV surveillance, police patrolling, and crowd management systems. Follow the instructions of the local authorities and volunteers to ensure your safety.
- Health Precautions: Carry essential medications and stay hydrated. Given the large crowds, there is a risk of heatstroke and dehydration. Medical facilities and first-aid centers will be set up along the procession route.
- Do’s and Don’ts: Respect the local customs and traditions. Avoid carrying valuable items and large bags. Maintain cleanliness and dispose of waste in designated bins.
For the latest updates and detailed travel advisories, visitors are encouraged to check the official websites of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration and Odisha Tourism. These sources provide real-time information on traffic regulations, security measures, and other essential guidelines. By following these guidelines and understanding the significance of each ritual, devotees and tourists can ensure a safe and spiritually enriching experience at the Puri Rath Yatra 2024.
Conclusion
Ratha Yatra is a spectacular display of devotion, culture, and community spirit. The festival not only holds immense religious significance but also showcases the rich traditions of Odisha. Devotees and visitors can witness a series of elaborate rituals and experience the vibrant atmosphere of Puri during this period. Whether participating in the procession or observing the rituals, Ratha Yatra offers a profound spiritual experience.