The Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, is one of the most significant and ancient Hindu festivals in India. This year, touted as ceremonial will see an attendance of more than 250000 devotees. This grand chariot festival, dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Krishna), has a rich history dating back over a thousand years.
The origins of the Rath Yatra can be traced to the 12th century when King Chodaganga Deva built the current Jagannath Temple in Puri. However, the tradition of the chariot procession is believed to be much older, possibly dating back to the 9th or 10th century.
The festival commemorates Lord Jagannath's annual visit to his birthplace, Gundicha Temple, along with his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra. This journey is made on enormous wooden chariots, hence the name "Rath Yatra" or "Chariot Festival".
The Rath Yatra holds immense cultural and religious significance. It's one of the rare occasions when devotees of all castes and creeds can see and touch the deities, as the caste restrictions of the main temple don't apply during the festival.
Over the centuries, the Rath Yatra has evolved, surviving through changing political landscapes, from Hindu kings to Muslim rulers, and later, British colonial administration. Despite these changes, the essence of the festival has remained intact.
Today, the Rath Yatra attracts millions of devotees from across the world. It's not just a religious event but also a celebration of Odia culture and craftsmanship, showcased in the intricate construction of the chariots.
References:
Eschmann, A., Kulke, H., & Tripathi, G. C. (1978). The Cult of Jagannath and the Regional Tradition of Orissa.
Kulke, H., & Schnepel, B. (2001). Jagannath Revisited: Studying Society, Religion and the State in Orissa.
Mahapatra, B. (2013). Jagannath: The Cult and Culture.
Mishra, K. C. (2014). The Cult of Jagannath.
Starza, O. M. (1993). The Jagannatha Temple at Puri: Its Architecture, Art and Cult.
Tripathy, B. (2015). Lord Jagannatha: The Microcosm of Indian Spiritual Culture.
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