Mumbai is all set to witness one of its most energetic spiritual celebrations as the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra returns on July 16. Organised by ISKCON Juhu, the grand procession will start on July 18 and will see beautifully adorned chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra through the streets of Andheri before concluding at the ISKCON Temple in Juhu. Want to know more about it? Scroll down.
ISKCON Juhu To Conduct Annual Jagannath Rath Yatra
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Every year, thousands of believers from across Mumbai and neighbouring cities come together to pull the sacred chariots, sing devotional hymns and participate in the centuries-old festival that represents faith, unity and devotion. The Rath Yatra is planned to start from New Link Road in Andheri West and make its way towards ISKCON Juhu, passing through multiple major roads along the route. The richly decorated wooden chariots, adorned with colourful flowers and traditional motifs, will be guided by religious music, kirtans, dancing devotees and cultural performances.
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One of the most important customs of the festival is the ceremonial pulling of the chariots by devotees. It is believed that taking part in this ritual brings blessings and spiritual merit. Participants will also distribute prasadam and refreshments to devotees and visitors throughout the procession, while various cultural performances and devotional programmes are expected to add to the festive atmosphere.
Why Does Rath Yatra Hold Special Importance?
The Jagannath Rath Yatra connects its roots to Puri, Odisha, where the world-famous festival has been celebrated for centuries. It marks the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. Over the years, the custom has spread across India and around the world through ISKCON, making Mumbai’s Rath Yatra one of the country’s largest, other than Odisha.
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The festival is open to people from all religions and backgrounds, which draws not only believers but also tourists eager to witness its colourful celebrations. Those who plan to attend are advised to arrive early, use public transport wherever possible and expect traffic diversions around the procession route due to the large gathering.
Are you excited for Rath Yatra?
Cover Image Courtesy: Website/Iskconmumbai
FAQs
Why is Rath Yatra celebrated?
Rath Yatra, the grand Hindu festival of chariots, celebrates the annual journey of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and his sister Subhadra from the main Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple (their aunt's home) in Puri, Odisha.
How is the Rath Yatra celebrated?
Rath Yatra is celebrated by pulling massive, newly constructed wooden chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra through the streets.
Who is Jagannath in 3 idols?
In the divine trio of the Jagannath Temple, Lord Jagannath is revered as an incarnation of Lord Krishna.
