Introduction Pahandi, also known as Pahandi Bije, is a central ritual in the Rath Yatra festival celebrated in Puri, Odisha. This grand procession involves the ceremonious movement of the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple to their respective chariots. Pahandi is marked by vibrant celebrations, chants, music, and an overwhelming sense of devotion. Historical and Mythological Significance The ritual of Pahandi has deep historical and mythological roots. It is believed to symbolize the divine journey of the deities to meet their devotees and bless them. The movement of the deities from the temple to the chariots is akin to the gods coming down from their celestial abode to interact with their followers on earth. This ritual is a crucial prelude to the Rath Yatra and sets the tone for the grand festivities that follow. Rituals and Procedures Pahandi is a

Rath Yatra, celebrated with grandeur in Puri, Odisha, is a festival rich in rituals and traditions. The day of Rath Yatra is marked by a series of elaborate and spiritually significant rituals that attract millions of devotees from across the globe. Here’s a detailed look at the key rituals performed on Rath Yatra day: 1. Mangala Aarti The day begins with the Mangala Aarti, a pre-dawn ritual where the deities are worshipped and offered prayers. This is an auspicious ceremony that marks the start of the festival. 2. Snana Purnima Prior to the Rath Yatra, the deities undergo a ceremonial bath known as Snana Purnima. This is followed by a period of seclusion, called Anavasara, during which the deities are believed to fall ill and are kept away from public view for about fifteen days. 3. Pahandi Bije The Pahandi Bije is the grand procession where the idols of Lord

1. Ancient Origins Rath Yatra has been celebrated for centuries, with its origins tracing back to ancient times. It is one of the oldest Hindu festivals, mentioned in various Puranas and scriptures. 2. Unique Chariots Every year, three new chariots are constructed for Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. These chariots are made from specific types of wood, primarily from the Phassi and Dhausa trees, and are built without using any iron nails. 3. The Chariot Specifications Nandighosa: Lord Jagannath’s chariot, 45 feet high with 16 wheels, is decorated in red and yellow. Taladhwaja: Lord Balabhadra’s chariot, 44 feet high with 14 wheels, is adorned in blue and red. Darpadalana: Goddess Subhadra’s chariot, 43 feet high with 12 wheels, features black and red decorations. 4. Chhera Pahanra Ritual The King of Puri performs the Chhera Pahanra ritual, where he sweeps the chariots with a golden broom. This act signifies

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