Happy Rath Yatra 2024

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🌟 The resonating sound of conch shells blends with the synchronized music of drums and bells as the chanting rises in tempo and faith. Lord Jagannath, the reincarnation of Lord Krishna, is brought out of the temple in the holy town of Puri, Orissa. 🕉️✨

According to legend, Lord Jagannath desired to visit his birthplace, Mathura, yearly along with his brother Lord Balabhadra (Balaram) and sister Goddess Subhadra. This journey, from the Jagannath Temple in Puri to the Gundicha Devi Temple, is known as the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra. 🛕

Starting on June 29th and celebrated on July 7th, the Puri Rath Yatra is a vibrant spectacle where the three deities are carried on chariots to Gundicha Temple. This is the only time idols are taken out of the temple in India, allowing people from all faiths to see the deities and participate in the procession. 🌍🙏

Before the Yatra, the idols undergo a ritualistic bath and are kept in isolation. On the day of the Yatra, the King of Puri, a descendant of the Royal Family of Orissa, performs the Chhera Pahara, sweeping the chariots and the ground, symbolizing equality. 🌸👑

The chariots, crafted by local artists, are pulled by devotees with long ropes. This act is believed to earn good deeds and penance. The journey from Puri to Gundicha Temple, about 3 km, takes several hours due to the massive crowds. 📿💪

After nine days at the Gundicha Temple, the deities return to Puri in the Bahuda Yatra, halting at the Mausi Maa Temple for a special treat of Poda Pitha. This grand festival, mentioned in ancient Hindu texts, symbolizes brotherhood and unity among people from all walks of life. 🌈🤝

During British rule, they referred to this energy-packed festival as "Juggernaut," a term derived from Jagannath, meaning 'The Lord of the World'. 🌟🌏

Experience the divine, the devotion, and the celebration of humanity at the Puri Rath Yatra! 🙌🚩

#JagannathRathYatra #PuriRathYatra #SpiritualJourney #CulturalHeritage #UnityInDiversity #IndianFestivals #HinduTradition #DivineCelebration

Venkataramanan Ramasethu

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