Rath Yatra 2025: 11 Lesser-Known Facts About Jagannath Rath Yatra You've Probably Never Heard Of

Uncover the fascinating secrets of the Jagannath Rath Yatra! Beyond the grandeur lies a treasure trove of lesser-known facts. Explore the intriguing stories and traditions that make this festival truly unique and captivating, as revealed below.

Rath Yatra 2025: 11 Lesser-Known Facts About Jagannath Rath Yatra You've Probably Never Heard Of

1. Every year, 200 skilled artisans construct new chariots for the Jagannath Rath Yatra, starting on Akshaya Tritiya. This 2-month process showcases their exceptional craftsmanship, with over 100 carpenters working on 1000 wooden logs to build the majestic rathas.

2. The chariots' design and dimensions remain unchanged, a testament to the tradition's rich heritage. Over 1000 wooden logs are carefully selected and crafted to construct the chariots, with no metal nails used in the process, adding to the mystique.

3. The canopies for the chariots are made from 1200 meters of vibrant cloth, stitched by a team of 15 skilled tailors. These colourful canopies add to the festival's splendour, attracting millions of devotees from around the world to witness the grandeur.

4. The Jagannath Rath Yatra is a spectacle like no other, attracting over 10 lakh devotees to Puri every year. This grand festival is considered the largest annual religious gathering in the world, showcasing the divine unity of humanity in devotion.

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Jagannath Rath Yatra is a grand chariot festival which marks the annual visit of Lord Jagannath, Balbhadra and Subhadra Devi to the Gundicha temple. (Image Source: The Daily Jagran) 

5. Before the Rath Yatra begins, the king of Puri sweeps the road with a golden broom, symbolising the cleansing of the path for the divine journey. This ancient tradition is a revered ritual, steeped in tradition and spiritual significance.

6. The chariots' wood is sourced from a secret forest in Nayagarh district, with no metal nails used in construction. Interestingly, Lord Jagannath's chariot initially resists movement, requiring devoted effort before it finally budges, adding to the mystique.

7. The ropes used for pulling the chariot are made from coconut fibre, remarkably 8 inches thick in diameter. These sturdy ropes are a testament to the ingenuity of the artisans, who carefully craft them for the grand festival.

8. During their stay at Gundicha temple, Lord Jagannatha is offered ‘poda pitha’, a special pancake that is an integral part of the tradition. Without having it, Lord Jagannatha doesn’t return to His temple, highlighting the significance of this delicacy.

9. Lord Chaitanya Mahaprabhu participated in the annual Ratha Yatra with sankirtan and dancing during His 18 years of stay at Puri. Lord Jagannatha’s Ratha would even stop to witness Lord Chaitanya’s enchanting dancing, showcasing the divine love.

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10. According to the Shastras, "rathe ca vamanam drstva punar janma na vidyate" - one who sees the Jagannatha Deities on the Ratha is believed to be liberated from the cycle of rebirth, attaining spiritual freedom and enlightenment.

11. Interestingly, the Aquarian Gospel of Jesus Christ mentions Lord Jesus Christ staying in Jagannatha Puri and witnessing the Ratha Yatra festival about two thousand years ago, highlighting the festival's universal appeal and spiritual significance.

 

(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)