Staff Reporter:
The world-renowned Jagannath Rath Yatra is being celebrated with great grandeur in Puri, Odisha. One of the most sacred festivals in Hinduism, the event draws millions of devotees from across India and around the world every year. Since early morning, the area around the Jagannath Temple and the Bada Danda (Grand Road) has witnessed an overwhelming gathering of pilgrims. The grand procession began under tight security, extensive medical support, and strict administrative supervision.
The Historic ‘Pahandi’ Ritual
One of the most significant highlights of the Rath Yatra is the Pahandi Bije ceremony. During this ancient ritual, Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Lord Balabhadra, sister Goddess Subhadra, and the Sudarshan Chakra are ceremoniously carried from the sanctum sanctorum of the temple to their respective chariots. Accompanied by chants, conch shells, cymbals, and thunderous cries of devotion, this spectacular procession attracts countless devotees every year.
Lord Jagannath’s Chariot – Nandighosha
- Height: Approximately 45 feet
- Wheels: 16
- Colors: Red and Yellow
- Flag: Trailokyamohini
- Charioteer: Daruka
- Guardian: Garuda
- Horses: Shankha, Balahaka, Shweta, and Haridashwa
Lord Jagannath’s chariot also carries nine accompanying deities, including Narasimha, Rama, Krishna, Narayana, Hanuman, Govardhan, and others.
Lord Balabhadra’s Chariot – Taladhwaja
- Height: Approximately 44 feet
- Wheels: 14
- Colors: Red and Green
- Flag: Unnayani
- Charioteer: Matali
- Guardian: Vasudeva
- Horses: Tibra, Ghora, Dirghashrama, and Swarnanabha
Nine accompanying deities also reside on Lord Balabhadra’s chariot.
Goddess Subhadra’s Chariot – Darpadalana (Devadalana)
- Height: Approximately 43 feet
- Wheels: 12
- Colors: Red and Black
- Flag: Nadambika
- Charioteer: Arjuna
- Guardian: Jayadurga
The Sudarshan Chakra accompanies Goddess Subhadra on this chariot.
Unique Tradition of Chariot Construction
Every year, the three magnificent chariots are built anew from specially selected Neem wood, beginning on Akshaya Tritiya. Following centuries-old traditions and scriptural guidelines, skilled artisans construct the chariots with remarkable precision. After the festival concludes, the chariots are ceremonially dismantled, and new ones are built the following year.
Extensive Security and Administrative Arrangements
The Odisha administration has implemented comprehensive security measures for the festival, including thousands of police personnel, paramilitary forces, drone surveillance, CCTV monitoring, medical camps, ambulances, fire safety units, and special traffic management to ensure the safe participation of millions of devotees.
Faith of the Devotees
According to Hindu belief, witnessing the Rath Yatra and having the opportunity to pull the sacred chariot ropes washes away sins and brings the divine blessings of Lord Jagannath. This deep spiritual faith makes the festival one of the most revered and emotionally significant celebrations in India.
