Bhubaneswar: (Report- Lipikarani Raut): Every year, millions of devotees gather in the holy city of Puri to witness the magnificent festivals of Lord Jagannath. The celebrations begin with the sacred Snana Yatra and reach their peak during the world-famous Ratha Yatra. These traditional festivals showcase deep devotion and rich cultural heritage. 
Before the journey starts, the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri performs a humble service. He arrives in a royal palanquin and sweeps the floor of the three chariots using a golden broom. He also sprinkles sweet-smelling sandalwood water. This royal sweeping ritual is called "Chhera Pahanra." It reminds everyone that a king and a common man are equal before the Lord.
People call this nine-day festival by many unique names. Some call it "Ghosha Yatra," while others name it "Patitapabana Yatra" because it saves the fallen. Ancient texts say that simply looking at the Lord on His chariot washes away sins and brings true peace to the soul.
The Grand Bathing Festival
The Snana Yatra takes place on a special full moon day. Temple priests gently carry the deities—Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Sudarshan—out of the main temple. They place the deities on a decorated bathing altar. Priests then bathe the gods using 108 pitchers of sacred water mixed with herbs. They draw this special water from the golden well, known as Suna Kua. Lord Jagannath receives 35 pitchers of water. Lord Balabhadra receives 33 pitchers. Devi Subhadra receives 22 pitchers, and Lord Sudarshan gets 18 pitchers. Following the bath, the priests dress the deities in the beautiful Gajanan Besha, or the elephant attire. Devotees travel from far away just to see this divine look.The Period of Rest
After taking this heavy bath, the deities traditionally fall sick. They retire to a secret room to rest for 15 days. People call this resting period "Anabasara." During this time, devotees cannot see the main idols inside the temple.The Chariot Festival Begins
After recovering, the deities step out for the grand Ratha Yatra. Priests bring the deities to their chariots in a beautiful, swaying procession called "Pahandi." Lord Balabhadra boards the Taladhwaja chariot. Devi Subhadra takes her place on the Darpadalana chariot. Finally, Lord Jagannath boards the mighty Nandighosa chariot.Before the journey starts, the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri performs a humble service. He arrives in a royal palanquin and sweeps the floor of the three chariots using a golden broom. He also sprinkles sweet-smelling sandalwood water. This royal sweeping ritual is called "Chhera Pahanra." It reminds everyone that a king and a common man are equal before the Lord.
Pulling the Chariots
After the king finishes his service, the real excitement begins. Devotees eagerly grab the strong ropes and pull the chariots. The air fills with loud chants, ringing bells, and beating drums. The chariots roll down the Grand Road toward the Gundicha Temple. The deities stay at the Gundicha Temple for several days before returning home.People call this nine-day festival by many unique names. Some call it "Ghosha Yatra," while others name it "Patitapabana Yatra" because it saves the fallen. Ancient texts say that simply looking at the Lord on His chariot washes away sins and brings true peace to the soul.
Posts
0 Comments