Lord Jagannath (File)
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: At the heart of this vibrant Hindu festival lies the sacred neem wood idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, believed to pulse with a mystical “living heart,” blending spirituality and tradition in a grand spectacle.
The idols of Lord Jagannath and his siblings are crafted from neem wood, known as Daru Brahma, sourced through a sacred ritual called Navakalebara, which occurs every 8-19 years. In 2025, fresh idols will be carved, each believed to house a divine essence transferred from old idols in a secret ceremony. Devotees claim this essence, often called Brahma, gives the idols a “living heart,” a belief rooted in centuries-old lore that draws pilgrims to Puri’s Jagannath Temple.
The notion of a “beating heart” stems from the mysterious Brahma substance placed inside the neem idols during Navakalebara. While priests guard the ritual’s secrecy, devotees believe the idols emit a spiritual vitality, symbolizing Lord Jagannath’s eternal presence. This mystical allure enhances the Yatra’s appeal, as millions gather to pull the deities’ towering chariots along Puri’s Grand Road to the Gundicha Temple, chanting hymns in devotion.
Chariot construction began on April 30, 2025, using specific woods like phasi and dhaura, while the neem idols remain the spiritual core. The festival, starting June 27, will see vibrant processions, with devotees braving summer heat to participate. Security measures, including 3,000 personnel, ensure safety, while cultural performances and offerings add to the fervor.
The Rath Yatra transcends borders, with global Odia communities hosting events. The neem idols’ mystique, especially the “living heart” legend, draws spiritual seekers, making 2025’s Yatra a beacon of faith. As Puri prepares, the festival promises to unite devotees in a timeless celebration of devotion and divinity.
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