Every year, when the month of Ashadha begins, the city of Puri in Odisha shines with a divine glow. The sound of temple bells, the echo of conch shells, and the unwavering devotion of lakhs of devotees light up the entire city. This is the time for the Jagannath Yatra, a festival that is not just a journey, but a deeply spiritual experience.
This year, the religious Rath Yatra will be celebrated on 27th June 2025. On this day, Lord Jagannath, along with his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, embarks on a grand chariot procession from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
The festival is so magnificent that it draws not only Indians but people from all over the world. It is believed that those who become a part of this Yatra are truly blessed and their lives are filled with divine grace.
In this blog, we will delve into the history of the Rath Yatra, its date and spiritual importance, the key rituals, and the cultural significance it holds in today’s world. So come along with us on this sacred journey.
The Devotees’ Rath Yatra
The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is a religious tradition that reconnects us each year with the true essence of devotion. This divine procession begins at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, sets out on a majestic journey on separate wooden chariots to the Gundicha Temple, which is considered their maternal home.
This Yatra holds a unique importance. It transcends all boundaries, be it caste, class, or religion. Everyone, from the richest to the poorest, from Brahmins to Shudras, joins hands to pull the chariots, hoping to bring the Lord closer to their hearts. It is believed that anyone who gets the chance to pull the divine chariot is cleansed of their sins, and their life becomes truly meaningful.
But this is more than just a religion, it’s a spiritual philosophy in motion. It represents devotion, service, and unity. During the Yatra, the entire town of Puri transforms into a grand celebration, filled with colors, music, devotional songs, and the energy of countless devotees. The air becomes electric with faith and festivity, making it an experience like no other.
When Is Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025?
This year, the Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025 will take place on a highly auspicious day, Friday, 27th June 2025, which falls on the Dwitiya Tithi (second day) of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadha. For the city of Puri, this is not just a festival, it marks the beginning of a nine-day spiritual celebration that devotees wait for all year long.
One of the most frequently asked questions is, “When is Jagannath Yatra this year?” So, to answer that the divine Rath Yatra will be observed on 27th June 2025, when devotion, faith, and tradition come alive on the streets of Puri.
Rath Yatra 2025 Muhurat Details:
- Dwitiya Tithi Begins: 26th June 2025, 1:25 PM
- Dwitiya Tithi Ends: 27th June 2025, 11:19 AM
On this sacred day, Lord Jagannath, along with his divine siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, sets out on a chariot journey amidst a sea of devotees. The procession begins from the Jagannath Temple and proceeds to the Gundicha Temple, considered their maternal home, where the deities rest for a few days.
Bahuda Yatra – The Return Journey
About nine days later, the deities return to their home at the Jagannath Temple in what is known as the “Bahuda Yatra”. This return journey is celebrated with just as much devotion and spirit as the main Rath Yatra day.
💡 It is believed that on this special day, Lord Jagannath himself comes out on the streets so that all devotees, regardless of caste, status, or background, can get his darshan. There is no discrimination—only faith.
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History & the Divine Legend
The Jagannath Yatra is not just a tradition, it is a living testament to India’s deep-rooted faith and spiritual heritage. The origins of this sacred procession date back to the 12th century, when King Anantavarman Chodaganga built the magnificent Jagannath Temple in Puri.
Since then, this divine journey has been celebrated every single year without interruption, carrying forward centuries of devotion, culture, and spiritual connection. It stands as a symbol of unity, belief, and the timeless bond between the Lord and his devotees.
A Story That Touches Every Devotee’s Heart
According to an ancient legend, after Lord Krishna departed from the world, his body merged with the sacred fire, but his heart did not burn. That divine heart was later enshrined inside a neem tree, and from it, the form of Lord Jagannath was created. It is believed that this heart is the mystical “Brahma Padartha”, a sacred element that remains a mystery inside the Jagannath Temple to this day.
Since then, Lord Jagannath has been worshipped as the public form of Krishna, with a unique appearance, a dark complexion, and large, soulful eyes. Alongside him are his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, and their divine unity is celebrated every year in the Rath Yatra.
Anavasara – The Time of Separation
After Snana Purnima, the three deities, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, are given a sacred bath with 108 pots of water. Following this grand ritual, it is believed that they fall ill with fever. This period of rest and recovery is known as “Anavasara”.
During this time, devotees are not allowed to see the deities, as they remain in seclusion, away from public view. When they recover, they prepare to embark on their grand journey to their maternal home—the Gundicha Temple—through the Rath Yatra.
💬 This isn’t just devotion, it’s an emotional connection. Just as a mother eagerly waits for her children to come home, devotees wait with longing for the moment when their beloved Lord will once again appear and set out on the chariot.
Main Rituals Of the Rath Yatra
The Jagannath Yatra is not just a one-day celebration, it’s a powerful combination of months of preparation, pure devotion, and deep-rooted scriptural traditions. Every ritual holds a profound meaning that brings devotees spiritually closer to the divine.
1. Chariot Construction – Begins on Akshaya Tritiya
Each year, the preparations for the Rath Yatra officially begin on Akshaya Tritiya, when the construction of the three new chariots starts in Puri. These chariots are crafted using sacred neem wood (Daru) and are freshly built every year—they are never reused.
🛕 This divine task is carried out by the Vishwakarma community, a lineage of skilled artisans who have been serving in this role for generations.
2. Snana Purnima – The Great Bathing Ritual
On Snana Purnima, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are bathed with 108 pots of holy water. On this day, they appear in a special form called Hati Besha, where they are adorned to resemble elephants.
After this sacred bath, the deities fall ill and retire to the Anavasara Griha (seclusion chamber) for a few days, during which devotees cannot have their darshan.
3. Chhera Pahanra – The King’s Service
One of the most iconic moments of the Yatra occurs when the Gajapati King of Puri, in a display of utmost humility, sweeps the area around the three chariots with a golden broom. This ritual, known as Chhera Pahanra, signifies that in the eyes of the Lord, all are equal, be it a king or a commoner.
The roads in front of the chariots are also cleaned, symbolizing selfless service and purity.
4. Rath Yatra – The Grand Procession
When the three majestic chariots roll onto the Bada Danda (the Grand Avenue of Puri), millions of devotees gather to pull them with ropes. Each chariot has its unique design and identity:
- Nandighosh – Lord Jagannath’s chariot (16 wheels, red and yellow)
- Taladhwaja – Bala Bhadra’s chariot (14 wheels, red and green)
- Darpadalana – Subhadra’s chariot (12 wheels, red and black)
Devotees believe: “Pulling the Lord’s chariot washes away all sins and leads one closer to salvation.”
5. Rest at Gundicha Temple
The deities stay for seven days at the Gundicha Temple, their maternal home. During this time, special offerings, prayers, and devotional songs are performed in their honor. For devotees, it’s another sacred opportunity to have darshan in a different divine atmosphere.
6. Bahuda Yatra – The Return Journey
Nine days later, the Lord begins the return journey to the Jagannath Temple—this is called the Bahuda Yatra. The energy, devotion, and celebration on this day are just as intense as on the day of the main procession.
A special highlight of this day is the Suna Besha, where the deities are adorned with gold ornaments, creating a magnificent sight for devotees.
💡 Each ritual sends a powerful message of selfless service, purity, surrender, and equality. Through this divine journey, every devotee feels a deeper connection to the Lord, experiencing not just a festival but a transformative spiritual awakening.
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The Three Chariots Of Jagannath Yatra
In the Jagannath Rath Yatra, three distinct chariots are constructed, each representing a divine form of the Lord. The structure, color, and size of each chariot are unique. These aren’t just artistic choices—they are scripturally rooted and deeply symbolic.
1. Nandighosh – Chariot of Lord Jagannath
🔸 Wheels: 16
🔸 Color: Red and Yellow
🔸 Height: Approximately 45 feet
🔸 Chariot Flag: Garuda
🔸 Chariot Name: Kapidhwaja
🔸 Names of the Horses: Shankha, Balahaka, Suweta, and Haridashwa
Lord Jagannath’s chariot is the largest and stands as a symbol of devotion and awakened consciousness. It’s the spiritual center of the entire procession.
2. Taladhwaja – Chariot of Lord Balabhadra
🔸 Wheels: 14
🔸 Color: Red and Green
🔸 Height: Approximately 44 feet
🔸 Chariot Flag: Taladhwaja
🔸 Names of the Horses: Tribra, Ghora, Dirghasharma, and Swornanava
Balabhadra’s chariot radiates peace and strength. It symbolizes dharma (righteousness) and moral courage.
3. Darpadalana – Chariot of Goddess Subhadra
🔸 Wheels: 12
🔸 Color: Red and Black
🔸 Height: Approximately 43 feet
🔸 Chariot Flag: Nadambika
🔸 Names of the Horses: Rochika, Mochika, Jita, and Aparajita\
Subhadra’s chariot represents balance and divine feminine energy. It is a sacred embodiment of Shakti (power) and grace.
Fact: The names and designs of these chariots have remained unchanged for thousands of years. There is no modern adaptation—they are preserved exactly as per ancient tradition, making them a living symbol of India’s spiritual heritage.
The Cultural Impact Of Jagannath Yatra
What once began as a local spiritual journey in the holy town of Puri has today transformed into a global phenomenon. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is no longer just a religious celebration — it has become a powerful expression of faith, tradition, and unity across borders.
1. From Puri to the World: A Truly Global Event
Jagannath Yatra is celebrated across countries like the USA, UK, Australia, South Africa, and Canada. Spiritual organizations like ISKCON have played a major role in spreading devotion to Lord Jagannath around the globe.
Every year, international devotees dress in traditional Indian attire, beat drums, and pull the chariot with the same passion you’d see in Puri. Watching people of different nationalities come together to celebrate this divine event truly brings to life the ancient Indian belief: “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” — The world is one family.
2. Digital Jagannath Yatra: Devotion in the Age of the Internet
Since the pandemic, the digital version of the Yatra has taken off in a big way. Devotees can now watch the grand procession of the Rath Yatra live on YouTube, Facebook Live, and dedicated temple apps.
🙏 Devotion is no longer bound by physical presence — faith has now found a digital path.
3. A Boost for Spiritual Tourism
The Rath Yatra has made Odisha a hotspot for spiritual tourism. Every year, lakhs of pilgrims travel from all corners of India to witness the divine journey in Puri. This massive influx not only strengthens spiritual ties but also boosts the local economy, handicraft industries (like Pattachitra and handloom), and hospitality sectors.
It’s a perfect example of how tradition fuels tourism, and devotion drives development.
4. A Living Example of Unity in Diversity
Jagannath Rath Yatra stands tall as one of the strongest representations of equality, inclusiveness, and selfless service. During the festival, no one asks who is rich or poor, what caste you belong to, or what language you speak — everyone holds the same rope and pulls the same chariot.
It’s a beautiful union of ancient tradition with modern values, where spirituality dissolves every divide and people come together with shared devotion and purpose.
Conclusion
Jagannath Rath Yatra is not just a ritual, it’s a spiritual bridge that connects us to our faith, culture, values, and inner self. It’s a journey that moves not only with the wheels of the chariot but also within the hearts of millions of devotees — every turn brings a lesson, and every pull of the chariot speaks of surrender.
Where many feel a spiritual disconnect, this Yatra stands as an emotional reset button. Whether you are in Odisha, the bustling cities of Delhi or Mumbai, or even in London or New York, the darshan of Lord Jagannath is open to everyone.
🛕 This Yatra reminds us, the path to the divine does not ask for caste or status. All it takes is devotion and faith.
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