Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026: Spiritual Significance Of Three Chariots In The Jagannath Rath Yatra | Read Here

Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026

Jagannath Puri is situated in Puri, Odisha, and is considered one of the four Dhams in India. The Jagannath Rath Yatra begins every year with the chant of "Jai Jagannath", where chariots of Lord Vishnu (known as Lord Jagannath), accompanied by his elder brother, Lord Balram, and his sister, Goddess Subhadra. The Jagannath Rath Yatra begins on the Dwitiya Tithi of the Ashadh Shukla Paksha. This year, the Rath Yatra will begin on 16 July 2026. 

What is the Jagannath Rath Yatra?

In the Hindu religion, the Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the most popular festivals, which is celebrated in Puri, Odisha, and the Rath Yatra begins on the Dwitiya tithi of Ashadh Shukla Paksha. "Jagannath" means Jag ke Nath, which means the Lord of the Universe. The Jagannath Yatra involves a chariot procession (Rath Yatra) of Lord Jagannath. A total of three chariots are featured in the Jagannath Yatra, and the first belongs to Lord Jagannath, the second is for his elder brother, Lord Balram, and the third belongs to his sister, Goddess Subhadra. This Rath Yatra is continued for nine days, during which all the chariots are pulled by devotees using ropes.

The Spiritual Significance of the Three Chariots in the Rath Yatra

During the Jagannath Rath Yatra, the procession (Rath Yatra) is conducted on three separate chariots of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. All three chariots have a different name and carries its own spiritual significance. Lord Jagannath's chariot is named Nandigosh. Balbhadra's chariot name is Taladhwaj, and Subhadra's chariot name is Darpadalan.

Lord Jagannath's Nandighosh Chariot

The procession of Lord Jagannath is conducted on the rath named Nandighosh. Among all three chariots, this one is the largest and most magnificent. It is coloured with red and yellow colours, which symbolise power, energy, and divinity. This chariot has sixteen wheels, and the Nandighosh chariot symbolises Dharm and victory. A Garud Dhwaj is hoisted at the top of the chariot, which is regarded as the symbol of Lord Vishnu's power. 

Balbhadra's Taladhwaj Chariot

Lord Balbhadra rides on the chariot named Taladhwaj, and the special feature of this chariot is the palm tree, which is described on its flag, which is why it is known as Taladhvaj. There are 14 wheels in the chariot, which are colored red and green. This chariot is the symbol of strength, stability, and courage. The palm tree symbolizes patience and strength, as it stands firm in every situation.

Goddess Subhadra’s Darpadalan Chariot

Goddess Subhadra’s chariot is known as Darpadalan. The term Darpadalana means the destroyer of arrogance. This chariot is coloured black and red with 12 wheels and is regarded as the symbol of humility, compassion, and the divine feminine power. The Darpadalan chariot conveys the message that love, humility, and harmony are the greatest strengths in life.