The Jagganath Rath Yatra is a highly significant religious event that takes place every year attracting millions of devotees and spiritual seekers from across the world. In this annual nine-day event, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balaram and Subhadra are taken out of the Puri Jagannath Temple and marched to the Gundicha temple, where they are kept for a few days and then brought back to the original place. This year, the yatra will begin on June 27, 2025.
Jagganath Rath Yatra 2025 Lesser-Known Facts
If you are planning to embark on this sacred yatra, then here are some lesser-known facts you must know:
A Brand New Chariot Is Built Every Year For The Idols
As the Rath Yatra festival is celebrated annually, a new chariot for the idols is built every year, starting on Akshaya Tritiya. Up to 200 skilled artisans and 100 carpenters bring their exceptional craftsmanship to work on 1000 wooden logs to build the majestic rathas. Every year, the design and dimension of chariots are kept the same, a testament to the tradition’s rich heritage. Over 1000 wooden logs are carefully collected and used to craft the chariots. During the construction, no metal nails are used in the process, adding to the mystique.
Rath Yatra Attracts Over 10 Lakh Devotees Every Year
The Rath Yatra is one of the most famous journeys devotees embark on every year. It attracts over 10 lakh devotees annually. The grand festival is the largest annual gathering that brings people together showing divine unity and people’s devotion.
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Lord Jagannatha Is Offered A Special Pancake As An Offering
During the nine-day festivals, the idols are taken to the Gundicha temple, where they are kept for a few days before bringing them back to their origin. During their stay, Lord Jagannatha is offered a ‘poda pitha’, a special pancake. Without this offering, the deity’s idol is not returned to the original temple, highlighting the significance of delicacy.
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The Idol’s Construction Is Left Unfinished On Purpose
The idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are known to look a lot different—almost incomplete. According to legends the sculpture Vishwakarma was interrupted by process, and the result is the incomplete and unique form we see today.
Credits freepik
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