Rath Yatra 2026: Know all about grand celebrations of Lord Jagannath
The Destination
The deities leave the main Jagannath Temple to visit the Gundicha Temple. This journey is a symbolic 3-kilometer (1.8-mile) trip to their aunts house.
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Image X @kscChouhan
New Chariots Every Year
The three towering chariots are built completely from scratch every single year using specific types of wood.
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Image X @kscChouhan
The Golden Sweeping Ritual
Known as Chhera Pahanra, the King of Puri sweeps the platforms of the chariots with a golden broom before the journey begins. This tradition symbolizes that everyone is equal in the eyes of the Lord.
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The Return Journey
After a nine-day stay at the Gundicha Temple, the deities return to their main home in a similar grand procession called Bahuda Yatra.
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The Aunt's House Stop
On the return trip, the chariots pause at the Mausi Maa Temple. Here, the deities are offered Podo Pitha, a special sweet pancake.
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Spiritual Cleansing
It is a strong Hindu belief that simply touching the massive ropes used to pull the heavy chariots cleanses a person of their sins and brings immense blessings.
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Image X @RupokAcharjee
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