Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a Hindu festival celebrated in the city of Puri, Odisha, India.
The festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, and is believed to be one of the oldest festivals in India.
Rath Yatra is celebrated on the second day of the bright fortnight of Ashadha month, which usually falls in June or July.
The main highlight of Rath Yatra is the procession of three grand chariots carrying the idols of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
The chariots are made of wood and are decorated with vibrant colors, flowers, and flags. The chariots are pulled by thousands of devotees through the streets of Puri.
The procession covers a distance of about 3 kilometers and attracts millions of devotees who come to witness the grand spectacle.
The pulling of the chariots is considered to be extremely auspicious and it is believed that participating in the Rath Yatra procession can cleanse one's sins and bring blessings.
Apart from the chariot procession, various cultural programs, rituals, and ceremonies are also held during the festival in and around the Jagannath Temple.
The festival has a deep spiritual significance and is a symbol of unity and equality as people from all walks of life come together to participate in the celebrations.
Rath Yatra is not only celebrated in Puri but also in other parts of India and around the world where there is a significant Odia community. The festival is a vibrant display of devotion, culture, and tradition.