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Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2026: The world famous Jagannath Rath Yatra held every year in Puri, Odisha is not just a religious festival but a living example of faith and eternal tradition, which has been followed for centuries. Along with this, this festival is a symbol of Indian craftsmanship.

In this journey, Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra go to Gundicha temple sitting on three different chariots. This chariot is prepared afresh every year.

What is the specialty of chariots

This centuries old tradition is made by a traditional carpenter family. No metal like iron nail, nut or bolt is used in the construction of these chariots which are made from Neem wood.

Chariot of Lord Jagannath

The chariot of Lord Jagannath is called Nandighosh. It is the largest among the three chariots. Its height is approximately 45 feet and it has 16 wheels. The main colors of this chariot are red and yellow, which symbolize energy, divinity and auspiciousness. Just its touch brings happiness in life.

Specialty of the chariot of Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra

Lord Balabhadra sits on the Taladhwaja chariot. This chariot, approximately 44 feet high, has 14 wheels. Its traditional colors are red and green, while the chariot of Mata Subhadra is called Darpadalan. Its height is approximately 43 feet and it has 12 wheels. The color of this chariot is red and black.

Spiritual messages hidden behind the chariots

According to religious beliefs, the wheels fitted in these chariots are not only for moving or travelling, but there are many esoteric messages hidden behind the chariots. The chariots used in the Jagannath Rath Yatra are linked to the Kalachakra of the world, reminding us of the eternal cycle of birth, death and rebirth.

16 wheels symbolize the 16 phases of the moon

The 16 wheels of Lord Jagannath’s chariot represent the 16 phases of human life and the 16 phases of the moon. The 14 wheels of Balabhadra’s chariot are considered a symbol of the 14 worlds of the universe described in the scriptures, while the 12 wheels of Mata Subhadra’s chariot are considered a symbol of the 12 months of the year and the continuous progress of time.

What is the similarity between chariot and human body?

The description of Rath Yatra is also found in Kathopanishad, where the chariot has been considered similar to the human body. In this view the chariot itself symbolizes the human body, God is the soul residing in it, the rope pulling the chariot is a symbol of devotion and the wheels tell about the continuous movement of life and its karmic cycles.