Puri, Odisha: Today marks the commencement of the annual 'Ratha Jatra' of Lord Jagannath in the sacred town of Puri, drawing thousands of devotees from far and wide. At the 12th-century shrine, three colossal chariots housing the revered deities have been prominently stationed, creating a mesmerizing sight for onlookers and participants alike. Known as the Ratha Jatra or the Chariot Festival, this age-old tradition holds immense significance as the oldest and largest Hindu chariot festival. It is dedicated to honoring Lord Jagannath and his divine siblings. The Jagannath Rath Yatra spans nine days, brimming with a multitude of rituals and traditions. Today, the colossal wooden chariots, carrying Lord Jagannath, Balbhadra, and Subhadra, will embark on their journey from the Puri shrine to the Gundicha temple. During the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra, the deities are paraded outside the temple on two sets of chariots, each comprising three intricately designed chariots. The first chariot leads the gods to the river that separates
