Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2023: Date, History, Significance & Sparking Joyous Festivities and Spiritual Reverence (Photo Source: @Travelxp)
The Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra, a revered and highly anticipated Hindu festival, attracts devotees not only from India but also from around the world. Every year, thousands of worshippers gather to pay homage to the idols of Balram, Subhadra, and Jagannath. This grand celebration holds immense significance throughout India.
People from all corners of the country come together to partake in this joyous event and share in the happiness it brings. On June 20, 2023, the Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra will be held, cherished as a deeply sacred and spiritual occasion. Lord Krishna takes center stage in this devotion, and participants also honor his siblings and brothers during the Rath Yatra.
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023: Date & Time
The grand Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra is set to commence at 10:04 p.m. on June 20 and conclude at 7:09 p.m. on June 21 this year. Renowned as one of the largest religious congregations globally, the Jagannath Yatra spans over 11 days, during which devotees dedicate their time to their chosen deity. Just like before, meticulous preparations have been made to ensure that this year’s spectacle surpasses all previous editions. The yatra promises to deliver something remarkable and exceptional, building upon the success of each preceding year.
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023: Schedule
The Jagannath Yatra, an annual event held on the second day of Shukla Paksha, has been highlighted in the context of the schedule for the Jagannath Rath Yatra in 2023. This year, like in previous years, the festivities will take place on June 20, 2023, at the revered Jagannath Puri temple in India, alongside celebrations in other cities across the country.
Jagannath Rath Yatra: History
The inaugural Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra, held in 1150, was hosted by the Ganga Dynasty. Over the years, the celebration has garnered global recognition and is now celebrated in various nations worldwide. Devotees visit the Jagannath Puri temple to seek blessings from Balaram, Jagannath, and Subhadra.
Jagannath Rath Yatra: Significance
During this auspicious occasion, the devotees of Lord Jagannatha gather to seek his blessings. These 11 days of festivity hold great significance for them. As part of the yatra, all three idols are ceremoniously taken to the renowned Gundicha shrine and kept there for a period of time before being transported back to the main shrine by the pilgrims. The Jagannath Rath Yatra has a rich history that can be easily found in sacred Hindu scriptures such as the Padma Purana, Brahma Purana, and Skanda Purana. Its origins date back to the 12th century.
Legend has it that Lord Jagannath, also known as Lord Krishna or the Lord of the Universe, designated the commencement day of the Yatra as the occasion to visit the Gundicha Temple. Interestingly, Lord Krishna was accompanied by his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra on this journey. Consequently, this day is annually commemorated as the momentous day when Lord Krishna set forth on his voyage.
Celebration of Jagannath Rath Yatra:
The commencement of the Yatra is marked by the placement of grand chariots dedicated to three deities. Lord Jagannath’s chariot is named Nandighosha, Lord Balabhadra’s chariot is called Taladhwaja, and Goddess Subhadra’s chariot is known as Darpadalan. As an expression of their deep reverence, a large assembly of devotees takes part in pulling each of these three chariots.
