Jagannath Rath Yatra (also Chariot festival) is a Hindu festival. It is held every year to commemorate the glory of Lord Jagannath. It is one of the most popular festivals in the state of Odisha. Rath means ‘chariot’ and yatra means ‘trip or journey’.
According to mythology, Lord Krishna would live in Puri during Kalyug. The Rath Yatra festival of ‘Lord Jagannath’ in Puri is world famous. Jagannath Puri is the ultimate destination for pilgrims.
The Rath Yatra festival of Puri, Odisha is biggest in the world. On this day, Lord Jagannath (along with Balarama and Subhadra) sits on a huge chariot and travel to Gundicha Temple. The amazingly beautiful idols of deities are placed on the beautifully decorated grand chariot. Thousands of devotees pull the chariot and seek blessings of the Lord.
After a period of seven days, the deities return to their former place. While returning back, they take rest at Mausi Maa temple. The deities are offered Poda Pitha to eat.
The rich cultural harmony of Odisha is reflected in the Rath Yatra Festival.
Also read: Ratha Yatra (Puri) in Wikipedia
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