Shri Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2024 live streaming: When will yatra start, where to watch online, and other information

Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra start date and time

Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra watch online

Jagannath Rath Yatra: Rituals and preparations

• Construction of the chariots: Preparations for the Rath Yatra begin several months in advance. The construction of the three grand chariots, each dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, is an intricate process involving skilled artisans and craftsmen. These chariots are built anew every year using specific types of wood. The chariot of Lord Jagannath, named Nandighosa, is the largest, followed by Taladhwaja for Lord Balabhadra and Darpadalana for Devi Subhadra.

• Pre-yatra rituals: Approximately 14 days before the Rath Yatra, a series of rituals are performed, the most notable being the Snana Yatra. During this ritual, the deities are bathed with 108 pots of water. Following the Snana Yatra, it is believed that the deities fall ill due to the excess water and are kept in isolation during a period called Anasara, during which devotees cannot see them.

• The day of the Rath Yatra: On the day of the Rath Yatra, the city of Puri transforms into a bustling hub of activity as devotees from all over the world flock to witness the grand event. The atmosphere is filled with celebrations, devotional songs, and the vibrant energy of the devotees. The deities, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, are brought out of the Jagannath Temple and placed on their respective chariots amidst the chanting of hymns and the beating of drums.

• The procession: The journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple covers a distance of approximately three kilometres. Due to the immense crowd and the ritual of pulling the chariots with ropes, the procession takes several hours to complete. Devotees believe that pulling the chariots helps cleanse them of their sins and grants them salvation. To ensure the safety of all participants, extensive security measures are in place.