Jagannath Rath Yatra 2024: 5 Interesting facts about Rath Yatra

The Jagannath Rath Yatra, a celebrated Hindu festival, unveils a rich tapestry of traditions and devotion. Featuring the iconic chariot procession of Lord Jagannath, Balarama, and Subhadra, each in their distinctive Nandighosha, Taladhwaja, and Devadalana chariots, the festival captivates with its elaborate temple designs, annual chariot constructions, and the awe-inspiring dedication of pilgrims who propel these sacred processions forward.
 

 The Jagannath Temple's three deities—Jagannath, Balarama, and Subhadra—travel in distinct chariots during the Ratha Yatra, also known as the Festival of Chariots. Their chariots, named Nandighosha, Taladhwaja, and Devadalana, respectively, vary in size and wheel count: Jagannath's has eighteen, Balarama's sixteen, and Subhadra's fourteen wheels.
 

The design of a Hindu temple resembles the ornate tops of Lord Jagannath's and the other deities' chariots. During festivals, hundreds of pilgrims and devotees pull these chariots with ropes, displaying their strong dedication. The canopies for the chariots are made using about 1200 meters of fabric, created by a team of 15 tailors working together.
 

 One of the most intriguing parts of the Rath Yatra is that the gods' chariots are built anew each year. Wood is a new material used in their construction. Despite this, the type, style, and size of the chariots remain unchanged. Each chariot has four wooden horses at the front.

During the Odisha Rath Yatra Festival, devotees who push the chariots share that initially, Lord Jagannath's chariot doesn't move despite many people trying. It stays still despite their efforts. After a few hours, the Lord allows the procession to begin, and then the chariot starts moving.

After nine days at Gundicha Temple, Lord Jagannath and His siblings pause on their way home. They relish poda pitha, their favorite dessert widely enjoyed in Odisha, indulging in its flavors before continuing their journey.