The city of Puri in Odisha is considered the abode of Jagannath, who has been deemed as the Lord of the Universe. Every year, devotees eagerly await the Jagannath Rath
Yatra, which takes place in the month of Ashadha. During this festival, three chariots carry Lord Jagannath, his sister Subhadra, and elder brother Balabhadra. As per Drik Panchang, "Ratha Yatra commemorates Lord Jagannatha's annual visit to Gundicha Mata temple. It is said that to honor the devotion of Queen Gundicha, wife of the legendary King Indradyumna who built the Puri Jagannatha temple, the Lord Jagannatha, Balabhadra and Subhadra leave their regular abode in the main temple and spend a few days in this temple built by Gundicha in their honor." Also Read: When Is Ashadha Gupt Navratri 2026? Check Dates, Significance and Ghatasthapana Time For a period of seven days, the Gundicha Mata Temple serves as the residence of Lord Jagannath. Here is everything you need to know about this festival.
When Does Jagannath Yatra Begin In 2026?
In 2026, this sacred Rath Yatra will begin on 16 July, Thursday, and conclude on 24 July with the Bahuda Yatra. Millions of devotees from across the world participate in the Rath Yatra.History Of Jagannath Rath Yatra
According to mythological stories, Lord Jagannath’s birthday falls on the day of Jyeshtha Purnima. On this day, Lord Jagannath is taken down from the sacred throne along with his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, and brought to the bathing pavilion near the temple.Also Read: 27 Years of Dhyanalinga: Why Sadhguru Created a Space of Deep Silence in the Velliangiri Foothills
There, they are ceremonially bathed with 108 pots of water. It is believed that after this ritual bath, the Lord falls ill and develops a fever. Because of this, he is kept in a special chamber for 15 days. During this time, only the chief temple servants and a few physicians are allowed to enter, and devotees are unable to have darshan of the Lord.
After the 15-day period, the ritual of Chhera Pahara takes place on Ashadha Dwitiya. In this ceremony, the King of Puri cleans the chariot platform using a golden broom. Only after this ritual does the pulling of the chariots begin.
Why Is There A 15-Day Period Of Seclusion Before The Procession?
On Jyeshtha Purnima (full moon), Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are bathed with 108 pots of water, a ritual called Sahastradhara Snan. The cold water causes the deities to fall ill, so they remain in seclusion (known as ‘ekantavas’) for 14 days. After this period, they appear before their devotees again.Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.
