The Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival) is one of the most magnificent and widely celebrated festivals in India, dedicated to Lord Jagannath and his siblings. Held annually in Puri, Odisha, the festival attracts millions of devotees and tourists who come to witness the grand procession and participate in the rituals. The festival is celebrated in the month of Ashadha (June-July), typically over a span of ten days, and marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.”
“During the Ratha Yatra, the deities are placed in three grand chariots—each beautifully decorated and drawn by thousands of devotees using ropes. The chariots, each one representing a different aspect of the divine trio, are pulled through the streets of Puri in a show of devotion and love. This journey symbolizes the connection between the deities and their devotees, as Lord Jagannath is believed to leave his temple to visit his devotees in their homes. It is a time for spiritual renewal and the reaffirmation of devotion, as participants experience a deep sense of unity, compassion, and divine presence.”
“The Ratha Yatra is not only celebrated in Puri but has spread worldwide, with cities such as New York, London, and Sydney hosting their own versions of the festival. The ISKCON movement, founded by A.C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada, has played a significant role in spreading the message of Lord Jagannath’s universal love and inclusiveness, organizing Ratha Yatra events in various countries and bringing the traditions of Jagannath worship to the global stage.”
The first-ever Rath Yatra in Mysuru was joyously celebrated in 2022, marking a historic moment for devotees in Karnataka. From pulling the chariots to singing bhajans and chanting the holy names of the Lord, the event draws thousands of devotees from across the state and beyond.
Each year, the Lords—Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra—are brought out in beautifully decorated wooden chariots and taken on a grand procession filled with spiritual fervor, music, and devotion.
Lord Jagannath is a deity of immense cultural, spiritual, and philosophical importance, embodying the ideals of unity, compassion, and divine grace. His worship connects devotees to a sense of universal love and devotion that transcends time, space, and tradition."
Join us in the journey of devotion and discovery. Stay connected and experience the grace of Lord Jagannath through upcoming events and celebrations. Discover more on our next pages
Join us in the journey of devotion and discovery. Stay connected and experience the grace of Lord Jagannath through upcoming events and celebrations.