Ratha Yatra

Ratha Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival of Lord Jagannath, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Balabhadra, is the most celebrated and revered Hindu festival in the state of Odisha, India. It is the oldest Ratha Yatra in India and the world, drawing millions of devotees every year. Celebrated in June or July, the festival takes place on the second day of the Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadh, according to the traditional Oriya calendar.

This nine-day festival commences with the Rath Yatra, where the deities are taken out in massive chariots for a grand procession. The return journey on the ninth day is called Bahuda Jatra. Devotees consider this period to be highly auspicious, and it is believed that visiting the temple during this time brings blessings and spiritual fulfillment. The powerful chant "Jagannāthaḥ svāmī nayana-patha-gāmī bhavatu me" reflects the devotion of the followers, expressing their wish for Lord Jagannath to guide them on their spiritual path.