Why We Celebrate Rath Yatra
Introduction Rath Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots, is a significant Hindu festival celebrated with immense enthusiasm and devotion. The festival, primarily observed in Puri, Odisha, is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, and his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra. Rath Yatra is celebrated for various religious, mythological, and cultural reasons, making it a unique and multifaceted event. Mythological Significance The primary reason for celebrating Rath Yatra is rooted in Hindu mythology. According to ancient scriptures, the festival commemorates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, their aunt’s home. This journey symbolizes a divine family reunion and the bond between siblings. The deities stay at the Gundicha Temple for nine days before returning to their original abode, marking a complete cycle of the festival. Religious Importance Rath Yatra holds immense religious significance