Every Rath Yatra, millions of devotees celebrate Lord Jagannatha's grand journey from Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha (a south-eastern state in India), to the Gundicha Temple. While the festival is known for its towering chariots and centuries-old rituals, it also brings renewed interest in the lesser-known chapters of Jagannath's history. One such forgotten story is that of Kankana Shikhari, a sacred refuge where the deities were believed to have been protected and worshipped during times of invasion, preserving one of Hinduism's most revered traditions through periods of crisis.&nbsp;<h2>What is Kankana Shikhari?</h2>Kankana Shikhari is remembered in Jagannath tradition as a sacred refuge where Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra were temporarily shifted during periods when the Puri Jagannath Temple faced attacks or political unrest. Rather than allowing the deities to fall into the hands of invaders, temple servitors secretly moved them to safer locations so that daily rituals and worship could continue uninterrupted.&nbsp;Kankana Shikhari is not just a place of worship, it is a symbol of faith, heritage, and the deep-rooted culture of Odisha. Over the centuries, this temple has been a spiritual anchor for the community, offering peace, blessings, and connection to the divine.&nbsp;Although Kankana Shikhari is not as widely known as the Gundicha Temple or the main Jagannath Temple, it occupies an important place in Odisha's religious history. Kankana Shikhari is a sacred islet and temple in Odisha, located near Nairi village on the banks of Chilika Lake.<h2>Significance and history behind Kankana Shikhari</h2>Reportedly, as per history, it states that between the 13th and 18th centuries, the Puri Srimandir (Temple) was attacked multiple times, prompting priests to relocate the sacred deities to ensure their safety. In 1731, during a devastating attack led by the Mughal Subedar Taqi Khan, the servitors secretly transferred the Chaturdha Murtis (the four deities) via boats to Kankana Shikhari.&nbsp;The deities were hidden on the island for over four months, turning the remote site into a temporary, clandestine Srikhetra (holy abode). Several reports state that servitors had to fetch fresh drinking water from the nearby Jamuna Nirjhara spring, as Chilika's waters were brackish. The local populace harvested kankada (a type of spiny gourd) to offer as prasad to the deities, which locals and chronicles say inspired the name "Kankana Shikhari".&nbsp;To preserve this historic chapter, Kankana Shikhari is celebrated for hosting a rare, centuries-old floating Rath Yatra. Because they lacked massive wooden chariots during their exile, the priests historically utilised interconnected boats to move the deities. Today, this tradition lives on, with the Holy Trinity placed on specialised chariots built over joined boats.

Kankana Shikhari is a lesser-known yet significant chapter in the history of Lord Jagannath. As Rath Yatra shines a spotlight on Lord Jagannath's rich traditions every year, let's delve in to know the sacred tradition that has been kept alive through generations.

Every Rath Yatra, millions of devotees celebrate Lord Jagannatha's grand journey from Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha (a south-eastern state in India), to the Gundicha Temple. While the festival is known for its towering chariots and centuries-old rituals, it also brings renewed interest in the lesser-known chapters of Jagannath's history. One such forgotten story is that of Kankana Shikhari, a sacred refuge where the deities were believed to have been protected and worshipped during times of invasion, preserving one of Hinduism's most revered traditions through periods of crisis. What is Kankana Shikhari? Kankana Shikhari is remembered in Jagannath tradition as a sacred refuge where Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra were temporarily shifted during periods when the Puri Jagannath Temple faced attacks or political unrest. Rather than allowing the deities to fall into the hands of invaders, temple servitors secretly moved them to safer locations so that daily rituals and worship could continue uninterrupted. Kankana Shikhari is not just a place of worship, it is a symbol of faith, heritage, and the deep-rooted culture of Odisha. Over the centuries, this temple has been a spiritual anchor for the community, offering peace, blessings, and connection to the divine. Although Kankana Shikhari is not as widely known as the Gundicha Temple or the main Jagannath Temple, it occupies an important place in Odisha's religious history. Kankana Shikhari is a sacred islet and temple in Odisha, located near Nairi village on the banks of Chilika Lake. Significance and history behind Kankana Shikhari Reportedly, as per history, it states that between the 13th and 18th centuries, the Puri Srimandir (Temple) was attacked multiple times, prompting priests to relocate the sacred deities to ensure their safety. In 1731, during a devastating attack led by the Mughal Subedar Taqi Khan, the servitors secretly transferred the Chaturdha Murtis (the four deities) via boats to Kankana Shikhari. The deities were hidden on the island for over four months, turning the remote site into a temporary, clandestine Srikhetra (holy abode). Several reports state that servitors had to fetch fresh drinking water from the nearby Jamuna Nirjhara spring, as Chilika's waters were brackish. The local populace harvested kankada (a type of spiny gourd) to offer as prasad to the deities, which locals and chronicles say inspired the name "Kankana Shikhari". To preserve this historic chapter, Kankana Shikhari is celebrated for hosting a rare, centuries-old floating Rath Yatra. Because they lacked massive wooden chariots during their exile, the priests historically utilised interconnected boats to move the deities. Today, this tradition lives on, with the Holy Trinity placed on specialised chariots built over joined boats.

Kankana Shikhari is a lesser-known yet significant chapter in the history of Lord Jagannath. As Rath Yatra shines a spotlight on Lord Jagannath's rich traditions every year, let's delve in to know the sacred tradition that has been kept alive through generations.

What is Kankana Shikhari? The hidden chapter in Lord Jagannath's history explained

The Jagannath Rath Yatra officially began in the holy city of Puri, Odisha, a south-eastern city, on July 16. The massive nine-day festival of chariots, running through to the return procession (Bahuda Yatra) on July 24, is celebrated on the second day (Dwitiya Tithi) of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Ashadha. But do you know one of the oldest traditions followed every year is when Lord Jagannath visits Aunt's temple in Puri?<h2>What is the story behind Lord Jagannath visiting Aunt's temple in Puri?</h2>Lord Jagannath visits his aunt's temple (Mausi Maa Temple) every year during the Rath Yatra festival, but this event takes place in Puri, Odisha, not in Dharmasthala. Dharmasthala is a prominent temple town in Karnataka known for the Sri Manjunatha Temple. The "aunt's temple" is known as the Gundicha Temple. It is located about 3 kilometres from the main Jagannath Temple. During the Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, rides in massive, newly constructed wooden chariots to the Gundicha Temple.&nbsp;According to sacred traditions, the Gundicha temple is associated with Queen Gundicha, the devoted wife of King Indradyumna, who is believed to have played a significant role in establishing the worship of Lord Jagannath.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/crowd-forms-human-chain-to-create-ambulance-corridor-during-jagannath-rath-yatra-1784264942647/amp">WATCH | Crowd forms human chain to create ambulance corridor during Jagannath Rath Yatra</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HNbwzTia8AAhulU?format=jpg&amp;name=4096x4096" alt="Image"></figure>As per the legend in several reports, Devi Subhadra expressed a strong desire to visit her aunt (Queen Gundicha). To fulfil her wish, Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra placed her on a chariot and embarked on a grand journey from the main shrine (the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha) to the Gundicha Temple. Another legend suggests that the Gundicha Temple is the exact place where Lord Brahma created the original wooden idols. Thus, the aunt’s house is also celebrated as the birthplace of the deities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jagannath-puri-rath-yatra-begins-amid-imd-s-forecast-for-heavy-rain-1784169261493">Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra begins amid IMD's forecast for heavy rain</a>&nbsp;On their way back to the main temple (Bahuda Yatra), the chariots stop at the Mausi Maa Temple (the aunt's shrine). Here, the deities are lovingly offered a traditional baked sweet delicacy called Poda Pitha. During the Rath Yatra, the deities step out of the sanctum to bless everyone. This symbolises that in the eyes of the divine, there are no boundaries of caste, creed, or social status.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/rath-yatra-2026-king-s-vision-to-millions-of-devotees-the-ancient-story-behind-lord-jagannath-s-annual-chariot-journey-1782728418135">Rath Yatra 2026: King's vision to millions of devotees — The ancient story behind Lord Jagannath's annual chariot journey</a><h2>Why does Lord Jagannath stay away from the Jagannath Temple during Rath Yatra?</h2>Right before the Rath Yatra, following a grand ceremonial bath during Snana Yatra, the deities supposedly catch a fever and are kept in a special sick room. For about 15 days, they stay away from public view while being treated with herbal medicines and special diets.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/the-hidden-history-of-rath-yatra-in-puri-why-six-chariots-were-built-in-ancient-times-1784199571218">The hidden history of Indian festival Rath Yatra in Puri: Why six chariots were built in ancient times</a>&nbsp;One of the most interesting aspects of Rath Yatra is that Lord Jagannath does not immediately return to His main temple. He leaves his sanctum sanctorum during the annual Rath Yatra to bless devotees who cannot enter the temple and during the Anasara period, when the deities ritually fall ill and are confined to a sick room to recover from the exhaustion of the Snana Yatra.

The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra is filled with centuries-old traditions, but one of its most cherished rituals is Lord Jagannath's visit to Aunt's place (also called a temple or house) in Puri. Read more to know about the sacred tradition which is held every year. 

The Jagannath Rath Yatra officially began in the holy city of Puri, Odisha, a south-eastern city, on July 16. The massive nine-day festival of chariots, running through to the return procession (Bahuda Yatra) on July 24, is celebrated on the second day (Dwitiya Tithi) of the waxing moon in the Hindu month of Ashadha. But do you know one of the oldest traditions followed every year is when Lord Jagannath visits Aunt's temple in Puri? What is the story behind Lord Jagannath visiting Aunt's temple in Puri? Lord Jagannath visits his aunt's temple (Mausi Maa Temple) every year during the Rath Yatra festival, but this event takes place in Puri, Odisha, not in Dharmasthala. Dharmasthala is a prominent temple town in Karnataka known for the Sri Manjunatha Temple. The "aunt's temple" is known as the Gundicha Temple. It is located about 3 kilometres from the main Jagannath Temple. During the Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, along with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, rides in massive, newly constructed wooden chariots to the Gundicha Temple. According to sacred traditions, the Gundicha temple is associated with Queen Gundicha, the devoted wife of King Indradyumna, who is believed to have played a significant role in establishing the worship of Lord Jagannath. Also Read: WATCH | Crowd forms human chain to create ambulance corridor during Jagannath Rath Yatra As per the legend in several reports, Devi Subhadra expressed a strong desire to visit her aunt (Queen Gundicha). To fulfil her wish, Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra placed her on a chariot and embarked on a grand journey from the main shrine (the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha) to the Gundicha Temple. Another legend suggests that the Gundicha Temple is the exact place where Lord Brahma created the original wooden idols. Thus, the aunt’s house is also celebrated as the birthplace of the deities. Also Read: Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra begins amid IMD's forecast for heavy rain On their way back to the main temple (Bahuda Yatra), the chariots stop at the Mausi Maa Temple (the aunt's shrine). Here, the deities are lovingly offered a traditional baked sweet delicacy called Poda Pitha. During the Rath Yatra, the deities step out of the sanctum to bless everyone. This symbolises that in the eyes of the divine, there are no boundaries of caste, creed, or social status. Also Read: Rath Yatra 2026: King's vision to millions of devotees — The ancient story behind Lord Jagannath's annual chariot journey Why does Lord Jagannath stay away from the Jagannath Temple during Rath Yatra? Right before the Rath Yatra, following a grand ceremonial bath during Snana Yatra, the deities supposedly catch a fever and are kept in a special sick room. For about 15 days, they stay away from public view while being treated with herbal medicines and special diets. Also Read: The hidden history of Indian festival Rath Yatra in Puri: Why six chariots were built in ancient times One of the most interesting aspects of Rath Yatra is that Lord Jagannath does not immediately return to His main temple. He leaves his sanctum sanctorum during the annual Rath Yatra to bless devotees who cannot enter the temple and during the Anasara period, when the deities ritually fall ill and are confined to a sick room to recover from the exhaustion of the Snana Yatra.

The annual Jagannath Rath Yatra is filled with centuries-old traditions, but one of its most cherished rituals is Lord Jagannath's visit to Aunt's place (also called a temple or house) in Puri. Read more to know about the sacred tradition which is held every year.&nbsp;

Rath Yatra's sacred tradition: Why does Lord Jagannath visit his aunt's house every year?

One of the world-renowned festivals, originating from Puri, a coastal city situated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, the Jagannath Rath Yatra begins today, marking the start of a grand nine-day chariot festival. Millions of devotees gather to pull the giant wooden chariots of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra as they journey to their aunt's home, the Gundicha temple. But did you know a legend says the Rath Yatra in Puri used to have six chariots instead of three in ancient times? Let's delve in to know more.<h2>What is the legend behind the six chariots during Rath Yatra in Puri?</h2>A legend states that a river named Malini used to flow across the grand road (Bada Danda road, Puri), a 3.5 km stretch through which the chariots are to be pulled, as per several reports. Devotees used three chariots to reach the river bank. They carried the deities across the water and then used three more chariots to reach the Gundicha temple.<figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HNVwdy_aEAAZ5a0?format=jpg&amp;name=4096x4096" alt="Image"></figure>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jagannath-puri-rath-yatra-begins-amid-imd-s-forecast-for-heavy-rain-1784169261493">Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra begins amid IMD's forecast for heavy rain</a>&nbsp;Unlike in the present year's Rath Yatra, during ancient times, the pulling of six chariots happened from Srimandir to the riverbank and the other three from the riverbank to the Gundicha temple. Then the deities were taken to the other side of the river through a makeshift bridge. Then the deities were mounted on the three chariots waiting on the other side of the river. These three chariots were pulled to the Gundicha temple.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/rath-yatra-2026-king-s-vision-to-millions-of-devotees-the-ancient-story-behind-lord-jagannath-s-annual-chariot-journey-1782728418135">Rath Yatra 2026: King's vision to millions of devotees — The ancient story behind Lord Jagannath's annual chariot journey</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HNVDwJWboAA9FLo?format=jpg&amp;name=4096x4096" alt="Image"></figure>Back then, of the nine days, the Holy Trinity’s stay at Gundicha temple was three days only. The remaining six days were spent getting used to the journey. This apart, devotees would face difficulty in pulling six chariots on the sand. One day, Saradha Devi, wife of the then king Gajapati Narasingha Dev, dreamt of Lord Jagannath ordering her to make the Rath Yatra free from any obstacles. After the vision, the mouth of the river Malini was closed, and the river was filled with sand. This closed mouth is now called Banki Muhana, and since then the place has been known as Saradha Setti or Saradha Baali. The devotees then put the holy sand of Saradha Baali on their heads, rub the sand on their entire body, roll in the sand and are fully absorbed with love for Mahaprabhu.&nbsp;Today, the Malini River has dried up or shifted, and the Grand Road is a continuous 3.5 km stretch. Therefore, starting from the 13th century (during the era of King First Bhanudev), the festival was simplified to use just three massive chariots for the entire journey.<h2>How many wheels are there in the three chariots for every year's Rath Yatra in Puri?</h2>The three sacred chariots of the Rath Yatra have a total of 42 wheels. Each chariot is unique and has a different number of wheels. Lord Jagannath's chariot (Nandighosha) has 16 wheels, Lord Balabhadra's chariot (known as Taladhwaja) has 14 wheels and Devi Subadhra's chariot (Devadalana/Darpadalana) has 12 wheels. The wooden wheels are giant, measuring about seven feet in diameter. Each chariot carries one of the deities and is distinct in height, colour, and number of wheels.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-scare-in-india-after-2-deaths-in-andhra-pradesh-odisha-on-alert-ahead-of-rath-yatra-tn-says-no-need-to-fear-1783999949413">COVID-19 scare in India after 2 deaths in Andhra Pradesh: Odisha on alert ahead of Rath Yatra, TN says no need to fear</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/HNVDwJTbIAA8UW_?format=jpg&amp;name=4096x4096" alt="Image"></figure>The main Rath Yatra procession took place on July 16, 2026. It is celebrated on the second day (Dwitiya) of the Hindu lunar month of Ashadha. Three gigantic wooden chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees using thick ropes. The largest chariot for Lord Jagannath is about 45 feet tall.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jagannath-rath-yatra-2025-10-interesting-facts-you-should-know-1751005085447">Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: 10 Interesting facts you should know</a>&nbsp;The deities journey from the 12th-century Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. They stay there for nine days. The festival began on July 16. The return journey where the deities go back to their main home. This will occur on July 24, 2026.

A hidden legend of Rath Yatra in Puri reveals that the festival used to have six chariots instead of three in ancient times. Read to know more.

One of the world-renowned festivals, originating from Puri, a coastal city situated in the eastern Indian state of Odisha, the Jagannath Rath Yatra begins today, marking the start of a grand nine-day chariot festival. Millions of devotees gather to pull the giant wooden chariots of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra as they journey to their aunt's home, the Gundicha temple. But did you know a legend says the Rath Yatra in Puri used to have six chariots instead of three in ancient times? Let's delve in to know more. What is the legend behind the six chariots during Rath Yatra in Puri? A legend states that a river named Malini used to flow across the grand road (Bada Danda road, Puri), a 3.5 km stretch through which the chariots are to be pulled, as per several reports. Devotees used three chariots to reach the river bank. They carried the deities across the water and then used three more chariots to reach the Gundicha temple. Also Read: Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra begins amid IMD's forecast for heavy rain Unlike in the present year's Rath Yatra, during ancient times, the pulling of six chariots happened from Srimandir to the riverbank and the other three from the riverbank to the Gundicha temple. Then the deities were taken to the other side of the river through a makeshift bridge. Then the deities were mounted on the three chariots waiting on the other side of the river. These three chariots were pulled to the Gundicha temple. Also Read: Rath Yatra 2026: King's vision to millions of devotees — The ancient story behind Lord Jagannath's annual chariot journey Back then, of the nine days, the Holy Trinity’s stay at Gundicha temple was three days only. The remaining six days were spent getting used to the journey. This apart, devotees would face difficulty in pulling six chariots on the sand. One day, Saradha Devi, wife of the then king Gajapati Narasingha Dev, dreamt of Lord Jagannath ordering her to make the Rath Yatra free from any obstacles. After the vision, the mouth of the river Malini was closed, and the river was filled with sand. This closed mouth is now called Banki Muhana, and since then the place has been known as Saradha Setti or Saradha Baali. The devotees then put the holy sand of Saradha Baali on their heads, rub the sand on their entire body, roll in the sand and are fully absorbed with love for Mahaprabhu. Today, the Malini River has dried up or shifted, and the Grand Road is a continuous 3.5 km stretch. Therefore, starting from the 13th century (during the era of King First Bhanudev), the festival was simplified to use just three massive chariots for the entire journey. How many wheels are there in the three chariots for every year's Rath Yatra in Puri? The three sacred chariots of the Rath Yatra have a total of 42 wheels. Each chariot is unique and has a different number of wheels. Lord Jagannath's chariot (Nandighosha) has 16 wheels, Lord Balabhadra's chariot (known as Taladhwaja) has 14 wheels and Devi Subadhra's chariot (Devadalana/Darpadalana) has 12 wheels. The wooden wheels are giant, measuring about seven feet in diameter. Each chariot carries one of the deities and is distinct in height, colour, and number of wheels. Also Read: COVID-19 scare in India after 2 deaths in Andhra Pradesh: Odisha on alert ahead of Rath Yatra, TN says no need to fear The main Rath Yatra procession took place on July 16, 2026. It is celebrated on the second day (Dwitiya) of the Hindu lunar month of Ashadha. Three gigantic wooden chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees using thick ropes. The largest chariot for Lord Jagannath is about 45 feet tall. Also Read: Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: 10 Interesting facts you should know The deities journey from the 12th-century Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. They stay there for nine days. The festival began on July 16. The return journey where the deities go back to their main home. This will occur on July 24, 2026.

A hidden legend of Rath Yatra in Puri reveals that the festival used to have six chariots instead of three in ancient times. Read to know more.

The hidden history of Indian festival Rath Yatra in Puri: Why six chariots were built in ancient times

Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of India's oldest and most celebrated Hindu festivals. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, roughly three kilometres away in the coastal town of Puri, Odisha. This year, Rath Yatra will be celebrated on July 16, which spans nine days in total, concluding the return journey (known as Bahuda Yatra) on July 25.<h2>How did a king's dream give birth to Lord Jagannath?</h2>King Indradyumna of Malwa (ancient Avanti) is a legendary monarch featured in Hindu scriptures like the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata. Renowned for his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu, he is most famously associated with the founding of the sacred Jagannath Temple, Puri.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rath-yatra-procession-in-toronto-hurled-with-eggs-india-demands-accountability-1752507798017">Rath Yatra procession in Toronto hurled with eggs, India demands accountability</a>&nbsp;As per the Hindu tradition, King Indradyumna of Malwa received a divine vision directing him to the coast of Puri, where a sacred log had washed ashore, which is meant to be carved into the form of the Lord. The divine craftsman Vishwakarma appeared in disguise and agreed to carve the deities, with one condition: complete privacy until the work was done. The impatient king opened the door before the work was finished, and Vishwakarma was nowhere to be seen. He had left behind three incomplete wooden forms, without fully shaped arms or features.&nbsp;Later, a divine voice instructed the king to install and worship these unfinished forms as the living deities. These three forms became Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. Since then the tradition of Rath Yatra began to honour and worship them.<h2>The historical journey of Rath Yatra beyond India</h2>The 13th-century Venetian traveller Marco Polo wrote about witnessing a chariot possession in India, which was massive and widely considered by historians to be a reference to Rath Yatra in Puri. Later, in the 16th century, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu made Puri his home and participated in Rath Yatra with such devotion.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jagannath-rath-yatra-2025-date-time-rituals-significance-and-more-1750937017000">Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Date, time, rituals, significance and more</a><h2>What is the meaning behind Rath Yatra, and which deities travel in the chariot?</h2>The word "Rath" means "chariot", and "Yatra" means "pilgrimage" or "journey". Together, they describe a living tradition that has continued, unbroken, for thousands of years. In Sanskrit, ‘Rath’ means 'chariot', and ‘Yatra’ means 'journey' or 'pilgrimage'. The festival is commonly known internationally as the Chariot Festival of Puri. All names point to the same ancient, living event.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn1.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260629/image-1782737966792.jpg"></figure>Three deities ride together: Lord Jagannath (Lord of the Universe), his elder brother Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Devi Subhadra. Each travels on a separate, freshly constructed chariot. Their journey together as siblings gives the festival a deeply human warmth alongside its divine grandeur.<h2>What are the rituals of Rath Yatra?</h2>The Rath Yatra festival involves a series of rituals, spanning from their ceremonial bathing, a period of seclusion, the procession of pulling the towering chariots and eventually returning to their home. The most significant rituals of the Rath Yatra occur in a specific sequence that begins weeks earlier.&nbsp;Snana Purnima (Sacred Bath of deities)&nbsp;About 15 days before Rath Yatra, on the full moon of the Hindu month Jyestha, the three deities are ceremonially bathed in 108 pots of sacred water. This ritual is called Snana Purnima. It is believed that the deities fall ill from the ceremonial bathing, mirroring the human experience of falling sick after heavy rain.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ahead-of-japan-pm-sanae-takaichi-s-india-visit-here-s-how-the-japanese-writing-system-works-1782735786944">Ahead of Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit, here's how the Japanese writing system works</a>&nbsp;Anavasara (Deities' period of rest)&nbsp;Following the first ritual, deities enter a 15-day rest period called Anavasara. During this time, there are kept in a special chamber and attended to only by the Daitas (a hereditary community of servitors) who are the only ones permitted to approach the deities in this period. The deities are treated with herbal remedies and special care. Regular devotees cannot take darshan during Anavasara. When the deities emerge, restored, their reappearance is celebrated as Navajauban, the return of youth.&nbsp;Pahandi Vijay (Deities moving to their chariots)&nbsp;Each of the deities is moved from inside the temple to their chariots in a ceremonial procession on the morning of Rath Yatra, called Pahandi Vijay. Temple servitors carry each deity in a rocking, dancing motion, accompanied by ritual music. Watching Pahandi is considered deeply auspicious and deeply moving.&nbsp;Chhera Panhara (Sweeping of chariots)&nbsp;The Gajapati Maharaja, the King of Puri, considered Lord Jagannath's chief devotee, descends from his palace, approaches the chariots, and sweeps their floors with a golden broom. A king sweeping for God. The message is unmistakable: before the Lord, all are equal.&nbsp;Pulling of Rath (Pulling of chariot)&nbsp;The procession of moving the Rath begins. Thousands of devotees take hold of the massive ropes; each chariot has several ropes, and they begin to pull. The chant of "Jai Jagannath!" rises across the crowd. According to the Skanda Purana, the spiritual merit of pulling the rope even once equals the merit earned from performing a hundred yajnas (fire sacrifices).<figure class="image"><img src="https://encrypted-tbn0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTcgxT34dJTuE4tHUUdas_Ut3YbWbXbDHSXbTKk5pLUBlFY5kKwFZcZ31I&amp;s=10" alt="Ready for Rath Yatra 2025? #isatyam #rathyatra #puri (rathyatra, rathyatra2025, jagannathrathyatra purirathyatra rathyatrafestival jagannath culture chariotfestival indianfestivals spiritualjourney festivalofindia odishadiaries traditionandculture ..."></figure>Gundicha Yatra (Chariot festival or car festival)&nbsp;The deities travel to the Gundicha Temple, which tradition holds was the home of Queen Gundicha, wife of King Indradyumna, described in some traditions as Lord Jagannath's maternal aunt. The deities rest here for seven days, receiving worship in a more intimate setting. This period is called Gundicha Yatra.&nbsp;Bahuda Yatra (The return of chariot and deities to home)&nbsp;On the ninth and final day of Bahuda Yatr, the chariots travel back to the Jagannath Temple on the same Grand Road. On the way, they pause at the Mausi Maa Temple (the Temple of the Maternal Aunt), where the deities receive an offering of Poda Pitha(a burnt-based rice cake/traditional Odia sweet cake), a traditional baked rice and coconut cake. The return procession is just as sacred as the outward journey, though it receives far less attention in most written accounts of the festival.<h2>What is the significance of celebrating Rath Yatra every year?</h2>Rath Yatra, which originates from Odisha, as per the Hindu scriptures and Skanda Purana, states that seeing Lord Jagannath on his chariot, touching the rope or even walking alongside the procession liberates the soul across multiple lifetimes.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-method-dressing-how-it-started-and-why-hollywood-and-bollywood-stars-are-obsessed-with-it-1782364965257">What is method dressing? How it started and why celebrities are obsessed with it</a>&nbsp;As per the Katha Upanishad, it uses the chariot as a metaphor for the human body. The chariot is the body, the passenger is the soul, the charioteer is the intellect, and the reins are the mind. Rath Yatra in this reading is not just a physical procession. It is a living meditation on the soul's journey through life.

Rath Yatra, unlike any other festival, spans nine days in total. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, roughly three kilometres away in the coastal town of Puri, Odisha. Read to know more.

Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is one of India's oldest and most celebrated Hindu festivals. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, roughly three kilometres away in the coastal town of Puri, Odisha. This year, Rath Yatra will be celebrated on July 16, which spans nine days in total, concluding the return journey (known as Bahuda Yatra) on July 25. How did a king's dream give birth to Lord Jagannath? King Indradyumna of Malwa (ancient Avanti) is a legendary monarch featured in Hindu scriptures like the Skanda Purana and the Mahabharata. Renowned for his unwavering devotion to Lord Vishnu, he is most famously associated with the founding of the sacred Jagannath Temple, Puri. Also Read: Rath Yatra procession in Toronto hurled with eggs, India demands accountability As per the Hindu tradition, King Indradyumna of Malwa received a divine vision directing him to the coast of Puri, where a sacred log had washed ashore, which is meant to be carved into the form of the Lord. The divine craftsman Vishwakarma appeared in disguise and agreed to carve the deities, with one condition: complete privacy until the work was done. The impatient king opened the door before the work was finished, and Vishwakarma was nowhere to be seen. He had left behind three incomplete wooden forms, without fully shaped arms or features. Later, a divine voice instructed the king to install and worship these unfinished forms as the living deities. These three forms became Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. Since then the tradition of Rath Yatra began to honour and worship them. The historical journey of Rath Yatra beyond India The 13th-century Venetian traveller Marco Polo wrote about witnessing a chariot possession in India, which was massive and widely considered by historians to be a reference to Rath Yatra in Puri. Later, in the 16th century, Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu made Puri his home and participated in Rath Yatra with such devotion. Also Read: Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Date, time, rituals, significance and more What is the meaning behind Rath Yatra, and which deities travel in the chariot? The word "Rath" means "chariot", and "Yatra" means "pilgrimage" or "journey". Together, they describe a living tradition that has continued, unbroken, for thousands of years. In Sanskrit, ‘Rath’ means 'chariot', and ‘Yatra’ means 'journey' or 'pilgrimage'. The festival is commonly known internationally as the Chariot Festival of Puri. All names point to the same ancient, living event. Three deities ride together: Lord Jagannath (Lord of the Universe), his elder brother Lord Balabhadra, and their sister Devi Subhadra. Each travels on a separate, freshly constructed chariot. Their journey together as siblings gives the festival a deeply human warmth alongside its divine grandeur. What are the rituals of Rath Yatra? The Rath Yatra festival involves a series of rituals, spanning from their ceremonial bathing, a period of seclusion, the procession of pulling the towering chariots and eventually returning to their home. The most significant rituals of the Rath Yatra occur in a specific sequence that begins weeks earlier. Snana Purnima (Sacred Bath of deities) About 15 days before Rath Yatra, on the full moon of the Hindu month Jyestha, the three deities are ceremonially bathed in 108 pots of sacred water. This ritual is called Snana Purnima. It is believed that the deities fall ill from the ceremonial bathing, mirroring the human experience of falling sick after heavy rain. Also Read: Ahead of Japan PM Sanae Takaichi's India visit, here's how the Japanese writing system works Anavasara (Deities' period of rest) Following the first ritual, deities enter a 15-day rest period called Anavasara. During this time, there are kept in a special chamber and attended to only by the Daitas (a hereditary community of servitors) who are the only ones permitted to approach the deities in this period. The deities are treated with herbal remedies and special care. Regular devotees cannot take darshan during Anavasara. When the deities emerge, restored, their reappearance is celebrated as Navajauban, the return of youth. Pahandi Vijay (Deities moving to their chariots) Each of the deities is moved from inside the temple to their chariots in a ceremonial procession on the morning of Rath Yatra, called Pahandi Vijay. Temple servitors carry each deity in a rocking, dancing motion, accompanied by ritual music. Watching Pahandi is considered deeply auspicious and deeply moving. Chhera Panhara (Sweeping of chariots) The Gajapati Maharaja, the King of Puri, considered Lord Jagannath's chief devotee, descends from his palace, approaches the chariots, and sweeps their floors with a golden broom. A king sweeping for God. The message is unmistakable: before the Lord, all are equal. Pulling of Rath (Pulling of chariot) The procession of moving the Rath begins. Thousands of devotees take hold of the massive ropes; each chariot has several ropes, and they begin to pull. The chant of "Jai Jagannath!" rises across the crowd. According to the Skanda Purana, the spiritual merit of pulling the rope even once equals the merit earned from performing a hundred yajnas (fire sacrifices). Gundicha Yatra (Chariot festival or car festival) The deities travel to the Gundicha Temple, which tradition holds was the home of Queen Gundicha, wife of King Indradyumna, described in some traditions as Lord Jagannath's maternal aunt. The deities rest here for seven days, receiving worship in a more intimate setting. This period is called Gundicha Yatra. Bahuda Yatra (The return of chariot and deities to home) On the ninth and final day of Bahuda Yatr, the chariots travel back to the Jagannath Temple on the same Grand Road. On the way, they pause at the Mausi Maa Temple (the Temple of the Maternal Aunt), where the deities receive an offering of Poda Pitha(a burnt-based rice cake/traditional Odia sweet cake), a traditional baked rice and coconut cake. The return procession is just as sacred as the outward journey, though it receives far less attention in most written accounts of the festival. What is the significance of celebrating Rath Yatra every year? Rath Yatra, which originates from Odisha, as per the Hindu scriptures and Skanda Purana, states that seeing Lord Jagannath on his chariot, touching the rope or even walking alongside the procession liberates the soul across multiple lifetimes. Also Read: What is method dressing? How it started and why celebrities are obsessed with it As per the Katha Upanishad, it uses the chariot as a metaphor for the human body. The chariot is the body, the passenger is the soul, the charioteer is the intellect, and the reins are the mind. Rath Yatra in this reading is not just a physical procession. It is a living meditation on the soul's journey through life.

Rath Yatra, unlike any other festival, spans nine days in total. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, roughly three kilometres away in the coastal town of Puri, Odisha. Read to know more.

Rath Yatra 2026: King's vision to millions of devotees — The ancient story behind Lord Jagannath's annual chariot journey

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