Astrology News: The temple of Lord Jagannath is located in Puri, Odisha. It is considered one of the four sacred Dhams (pilgrimage sites). Here, Lord Krishna is enshrined in the form of Lord Jagannath. The world-famous Rath Yatra (Chariot Procession) of Lord Jagannath is held here annually. It is one of the major festivals of the Sanatan tradition, drawing millions of devotees. During the Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, travels on a chariot to the Gundicha Devi Temple. Gundicha Devi is regarded as the Lord’s aunt.
Devotees participate in this grand festival to seek the Lord’s blessings and to pull the chariot. It is believed that doing so washes away a person’s sins. This year, the sacred Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath will take place from July 16 to July 24. There are many mysteries associated with Lord Jagannath. It is said that fifteen days before the Rath Yatra, the Lord falls ill and is offered medicinal Prasad (offerings). This period is known as ‘Anasar Kaal’ or ‘Anasar’.
Prior to the Rath Yatra, ‘Snana Purnima’ (Bathing Festival) is celebrated on the full moon day of the Jyeshtha month. On this occasion, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra undergo a special ceremonial bath (Abhishek) using water from 108 sacred pitchers. It is believed that Lord Jagannath develops a fever following this ritual. Subsequently, He remains ill for about fifteen days; this period is called ‘Anasar Kaal’ or ‘Anasar’. During this time, the temple doors remain closed, and the Lord is offered medicinal Bhog (offerings). Devotees are granted Darshan (a holy glimpse) only after the Lord recovers following this special treatment. Furthermore, the Rath Yatra commences only after His recovery. The Rath Yatra holds immense religious significance. The Special Religious Significance of the Rath Yatra
According to religious beliefs, participating with devotion in Lord Jagannath’s Rath Yatra and pulling the chariot’s ropes yields immense spiritual merit. It is believed that pulling the ropes of Lord Jagannath’s chariot washes away all sins committed unknowingly and invokes the Lord’s special grace. The Lord does not reside solely within temples; He also steps out to grant a glimpse of Himself to His devotees. This is the spiritual message of the grand Rath Yatra festival.
