Posted on June 20, 2025

Rath Yatra 2025: The Divine Journey of Lord Jagannath

Written by : Badhaai Do

Category: Rath Yatra: Festival of Lord Jagannath

Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of the most celebrated and vibrant festivals in India. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, from their home in the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, to the Gundicha Temple. In 2025, Rath Yatra will be celebrated on Friday, 27th June, with grandeur and spiritual enthusiasm across various parts of India and the world.

🛕 Historical Background: When and How Rath Yatra Started

The tradition of Rath Yatra dates back thousands of years and is deeply rooted in ancient scriptures. It finds mention in the Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and Padma Purana, where Lord Jagannath is described as a form of Lord Vishnu or Krishna.

The Rath Yatra is believed to have started in 12th century AD, around the time the Jagannath Temple in Puri was constructed by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. The chariot festival was designed to symbolize the divine visit of the deities to their maternal aunt’s place – the Gundicha Temple – about 3 kilometers from the Jagannath Temple.

🌟 Spiritual Significance of Rath Yatra

Rath Yatra represents Lord Krishna’s journey from Gokul to Mathura, or as some believe, his leelas in Vrindavan. Spiritually, it signifies the movement of the soul (Jiva) towards the Supreme Consciousness (Brahman), with Lord Jagannath leading the way.

Devotees believe that even a glimpse of Lord Jagannath on the chariot or pulling the chariot is highly auspicious and liberating. This act, known as “Chhera Pahara”, is also performed by the King of Puri, who sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, showcasing humility before the Lord.

📍 Where is Rath Yatra Celebrated?

✅ Puri, Odisha – The Grandest Celebration
The most iconic Rath Yatra happens in Puri, where three massive wooden chariots are prepared anew every year using neem wood. Lakhs of devotees gather from all over the world to witness this divine procession.

✅ Ahmedabad, Gujarat
The second-largest Rath Yatra takes place in Ahmedabad, starting from the Jagannath Temple in Jamalpur and covering various parts of the city. Elephants, akharas, and tribal dancers join the grand parade.

✅ Kolkata, West Bengal
In Kolkata, the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) organizes a massive celebration where thousands of devotees pull the chariot and participate in bhajan and kirtan.

✅ International Celebrations
From New York to London, and from Sydney to Singapore, ISKCON temples organize Rath Yatra festivals, promoting Sanatan Dharma and devotion to Lord Jagannath globally.

🛕 Celebrate Rath Yatra 2025 with divine greetings — ✨ create and share your personalized wishes now on Badhaai Do! 🎉📩

🎡 The Chariots and Their Symbolism

Lord Jagannath’s Chariot – Nandighosha: 16 wheels, 45 feet high

Balabhadra’s Chariot – Taladhwaja: 14 wheels, 44 feet high

Subhadra’s Chariot – Darpadalana: 12 wheels, 43 feet high

Each chariot is decorated in specific colors and pulled by thousands of hands chanting “Jai Jagannath!”

🙏 How Rath Yatra is Celebrated

Snana Purnima – Before Rath Yatra, the deities are bathed in 108 pots of water.

Anasara – Post bath, the deities are believed to fall ill and rest for 15 days.

Rath Yatra Day – The deities are mounted on their chariots and pulled to Gundicha Temple.

Hera Panchami – Symbolizes Goddess Lakshmi’s visit to the Gundicha Temple.

Bahuda Yatra – The return journey of the deities to Jagannath Temple.

Suna Besha – On return, Lord Jagannath is dressed in golden attire and blesses devotees.

🌈 Why You Should Witness Rath Yatra Once in a Lifetime

The energy, devotion, and culture during Rath Yatra are unmatched.

It is one of the few occasions when non-Hindus can see Lord Jagannath, as the temple entrance is usually restricted.

The visuals of massive chariots, spiritual music, and community bonding make it a cultural marvel.

📷 Experience Rath Yatra with Us!

Make this Rath Yatra memorable. Capture your celebration moments and share them with us. Your photos might get featured on our social media. Join the spiritual journey now!

🔖 Conclusion

Rath Yatra is more than just a festival—it is a reminder of unity, devotion, and divine love. Whether you’re in Puri or miles away, the spirit of Rath Yatra transcends boundaries, connecting millions of hearts through Lord Jagannath’s grace.