Ratha Yatra is an annual festival that marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, from their temple to the Gundicha Temple.
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1. The festival is celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight in the month of Ashadha (June/July) as per the Hindu calendar.
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Millions of devotees gather in Puri to witness and participate in the grand procession, pulling the chariots with ropes.
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The chariot procession begins with the pulling of three massive chariots, namely Nandighosa (Jagannath's chariot), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra's chariot), and Darpadalana (Subhadra's chariot).
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Thousands of devotees gather in Puri to witness and participate in the grand procession, pulling the chariots with ropes.
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The journey from the main temple to the Gundicha Temple covers a distance of approximately three kilometers.
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The procession is accompanied by loud chants, devotional songs, and the beating of drums, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere.
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1. The chariot pulling is considered highly auspicious, and devotees believe that by participating in it, they can earn the blessings of Lord Jagannath.
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The Ratha Yatra is symbolic of the journey of Lord Jagannath to visit his birthplace, the Gundicha Temple, which is believed to be his aunt's house.
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The Ratha Yatra attracts devotees from all over the world, and it is one of the largest and most significant chariot festivals in India, symbolizing the universal love and devotion towards Lord Jagannath.