The Story Behind Ratha Yatra
Rath Yatra
What is it?
Also known as the “chariots festival,” it marks Lord Jagannath’s annual journey between the temples in which he resides.
When is it?
Since it follows the lunisolar calendar, it typically falls in June or July. In 2024, it’s on July 7
Where is it celebrated?
Primarily celebrated by Hindu communities globally
How is it celebrated?
Giant decorated wooden chariots carry murthis of Lord Jagannath and his two siblings through the streets of Puri, India. Devotees pull the chariots, sing, dance, and chant prayers in celebration
The Story of Rath Yatra
Once upon a time...
Lord Krishna's evil uncle, Kamsa, tried countless tactics to kill him over the years. In yet another failed ploy to have Krishna and his older brother, Balarama, killed, Kamsa invited them to Mathura for a wrestling match. A chariot was sent to chauffer the brothers from Gokul. Devotees celebrate this day of departure as Ratha Yatra.
Ratha Yatra, or the Festival of Chariots, originated in the 12th century in Indian holy city of Jagannath Puri. The Festival celebrates Lord Krishna’s return to Vrindavan and signifies the Lord’s love for His devotees.
On the day of the festival, Lord Jagannatha -- believed to be an avatar of Vishnu -- is honored in the form of carved wooden stump with large facial features, but no arms or legs. Lord Jagannatha's siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Subhadra Devj, are also celebrated alongside.
... But why the odd wooden form?
"Krishna's grief-stuck siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra, rushed into the Dwarka sea carrying his half-cremated body. At the same moment, King Indrayumna dreamed that Krishna's body had floated back up on his shores as a log. Indrayumna decided to build a temple to house the log. Legends say that Vishwakarma, God's own architect, arrived as an old carpenter. He agreed to carve the idols, but on the condition that he was not to be disturbed. However, when he did not emerge from his workshop for weeks, going without food, water or rest, a worried and impatient King threw the door open. At the time the images were only half-finished, but the carpenter disappeared. Still, believing the idols to be made from the very body of God, the King sanctified them and and placed them in the temple."
On the day of the festival, the wooden deities (which are usually kept in the Jagannath temple) are each placed in massive chariots that appear like temples. This is the only festival in the world where deities are taken out of temples to travel to devotees, and it is also the largest chariot procession in the world.
Devotees then pull these chariots to the neighboring Gundicha temple 2km away, which is the birthplace of Lord Jagannatha. The statues are then left at Gundicha temple for 7 days in order to let the Gods rest before they are returned to the original temple.
Interesting Facts about Rath Yatra
1. The Prophecy of Rain
The day of the procession usually always witnesses rainfall, even during dry spells. This "holy rain" is seen as a blessing and a sign of Lord Jagannath's presence.
2. Going to Great Lengths
Each day, a priest climbs the tall outer wall of the Jagannath Temple, equivalent to a 45-story building -- without any safety gear -- to change the flag atop the temple.
3. The Royal Treatment
Before the procession begins, the king of Puri sweeps a small section of the road in front of the temple with a golden broom. This ritual signifies equality and humility, as even the highest-ranking person participates in preparing the way for the deities.
4. New Chariots Every Year
Three new chariots, for each one of the deities, are built each year to signify renewal and impermanence. While each chariot varies slightly in size, it stands ~45 feet tall and weighs ~300 tons. The chariots’ ropes are made out of husks of coconuts.
5. Do Not Disturb
Once the deities’ chariots arrive at the Gundicha Temple for their 9 day visit, the doors mysteriously remain closed during this time. Devotees believe the deities themself "lock" the doors from the inside, a symbolic act with various interpretations.
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Modi Toys is a children's brand of toys and books inspired by ancient Hindu culture. We exist to spread joy and to spark curiosity in the next generation through our innovative soft plush toys, illustrated children's books and free learning resources. Our weekly Theology Thursday series covers a wide range of topics rooted in Hinduism to help us better understand the origins of traditions, the symbolic meaning of rituals, and the stories behind Hindu holidays and festivals. The more we can understand "the why" behind this 4,000 year ancient religion, and make sense of it in this modern age, the greater we can appreciate and preserve our rich Hindu culture. While we take great care in thoroughly researching the information presented, we may occasionally get some things wrong. We encourage a healthy and open dialogue so we can learn together. Please leave a comment below or email us directly at support@moditoys.com to address any concerns.
