Jagannath Rath Yatra: Why does Lord Jagannath fall ill 15 days before the Rath Yatra? Know the story behind it

Jagannath Rath Yatra

Jagannath Rath Yatra is one of the major festivals celebrated in India, and it has a special significance. Jagannath Rath Yatra is celebrated every year on the Dwitiya tithi of the Ashadh Shukla Paksha. Lord Jagannath, elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Devi Subhadra travel to the Gundicha temple riding on the chariots from Puri Dham in Odisha. Several devotees visit Puri across the world to witness this divine journey.

Traditions Observed 15 Days Before the Yatra

What is the Anasar period?

This period of 15 days after the Snan Purnima is known as Anasar. During this period, the deities are given complete rest. The doors of the temple remain closed for the devotees, and no one can have darshan of the Lord. 

Special significance of 'Navyauvan Darshan'

After the rest of the 15 days, the deities are considered completely healthy, and after this, they are decorated with new clothes, attractive makeup, and special ornaments. This auspicious occasion is called Navyauvan Darshan. It is believed that on this day, the deities appear in a new and extremely divine form. The next day of Navayuvan Darshan, the three deities travel to the Gundicha Temple, which is regarded as their maternal aunt's home, and stay there for seven days.

Tradition of Pulling the Chariots

During the Rath Yatra, thousands of devotees pull the chariots using ropes. According to religious belief, pulling the chariots is an act of immense spiritual merit (Punya) and bestows the special grace of the Lord upon the devotees. This opportunity is one of the greatest blessings in the lives of devotees.