- By Kashish Rai
- Wed, 11 Jun 2025 11:49 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: One of the biggest and most beloved festivals in India is the Jagannath Rath Yatra, also called the Jagannath Puri Yatra, which takes place annually in Puri, Odisha. This vibrant festival honours Lord Jagannath, a manifestation of Lord Vishnu, as well as his sister Subhadra and older brother Balabhadra. Devotees from all over the world will attend this festival on 27th June 2025. In a truly poignant celebration of faith and tradition, the deities are ceremoniously carried from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, which is thought to be their aunt's home. This procession symbolises love, unity and divine joy.
Know the interesting legend behind why Lord Jagannath visits Gundicha temple annually during the Rath Yatra festivities and know why this grand chariot festival is celebrated.
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Interesting Story Behind Odisha's Iconic Chariot Festival
The deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra make their way from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, which is believed to be their aunt's residence, during the Rath Yatra, a magnificent ceremonial procession. They travel in three magnificent, exquisitely carved, and vibrantly decorated wooden chariots. In a profoundly spiritual practice thought to bestow great blessings, thousands of devotees assemble to pull these chariots by hand. This is regarded as the most significant of Lord Jagannath's twelve yearly journeys, according to holy writings such as the Skanda Purana.
It is believed that seeing the gods on their chariots during this sacred voyage atones for sins and draws in divine favour. Chanting, music and a strong sense of devotion are all prevalent during the Yatra. It's a journey that reflects deep spiritual meanings and is more than just a celebration. According to one theory, it symbolises Lord Jagannath's yearly pilgrimage to Mathura, the site of his birth, represented by the Gundicha Temple.
The Lord's journey from heaven to earth is also symbolised by this divine procession, which enables him to communicate with all of his followers. People of all castes and backgrounds are welcome to participate in this holy celebration of life and devotion, and the Rath Yatra exquisitely embodies the themes of equality, unity, and the soul's quest for liberation.
Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balbhadra and Subhadra, visits the sacred Gundicha temple during the Rath Yatra festivities. (Image Source: Freepik)
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2025: Why Lord Jagannath Visits Gundicha Temple
In the Rath Yatra festivities, the Gundicha Temple, frequently referred to as Lord Jagannath's "aunt's house," has a special significance. It is located near Puri's main shrine and was constructed by Queen Gundicha, the wife of King Indradyumna, the legendary founder of the first Jagannath Temple. Also called the Garden House of Lord Jagannath, it is encircled by a tranquil garden. During the annual Rath Yatra, the Lord and his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra come to this holy site and spend seven days there.
Significant legends abound in the temple. According to a popular legend, Queen Gundicha was a devoted devotee of Lord Jagannath. The Lord was moved by her devotion and promised to come to her house annually. According to another belief, the temple is owned by Lord Krishna's adored aunt, who greets the divine siblings with padoapitha, a special rice dish. During the festival, this heartwarming act is lovingly recalled.
Gundicha Yatra, Nava Dina Yatra, or Ghosa Yatra are the names given to the pilgrimage from Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple. After seven days, the Lord departs and then returns. Adapa Darshan, or seeing the Lord at Gundicha Temple, is regarded by devotees as extremely auspicious.