On the sacred land of Puri, a remarkable confluence of reverence, devotion, and faith is once again visible. Like every year, as the Jagannath Rath Yatra commenced, thousands of devotees flocked towards Puri. The 2025 Jagannath Rath Yatra has begun in an extremely grand and devotional atmosphere. Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra have embarked on their respective chariots towards the Gundicha Temple in Puri today.
This journey holds not only religious significance but also encompasses social, cultural, and emotional aspects. The most special thing is that during this yatra, Lord Jagannath stays at the Gundicha Temple for seven days. This stay is not just a tradition, but it conceals many profound spiritual and social messages.
Commencement of the Grand Rath Yatra
As soon as the auspicious time for the Rath Yatra began, hymns, chants, and the sound of conch shells echoed through the streets of Puri. Thousands of devotees gathered to pull the chariots. Everyone appeared filled with just one sentiment: to contribute to taking the Lord to his new abode. The main roads of Puri were decorated with flowers, rangoli, and flags. The entire city is immersed in the color of devotion.
Why Gundicha Temple is Called the Aunt's House
The Gundicha Temple, located approximately three kilometers from the main temple in Puri, is considered the home of Lord Jagannath's aunt. It is believed that the Lord visits his aunt's house for seven days every year. During this time, he comes closer to his devotees. For those devotees who, for some reason, cannot visit the main temple of the Lord throughout the year, this time is nothing less than a blessing.
The Tradition of Staying at the Gundicha Temple
Lord Jagannath's seven-day stay at the Gundicha Temple is a symbol. It shows that the Lord does not reside only in his grand temple, but also comes among his devotees, sharing their joys and sorrows. In this phase of the Rath Yatra, the Lord stays among the common people, accepts their hospitality, and conveys the message that God is accessible to everyone. This sojourn is considered especially meritorious for devotees.
Gundicha Marjana: Preparation for the Lord's Arrival
A special cleaning is performed in the Gundicha Temple a day before the Rath Yatra, which is called Gundicha Marjana. Under this tradition, every corner of the temple is cleaned so that the Lord is welcomed with complete purity and cleanliness. This ritual was started by Shri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu himself, which is still performed today. Devotees participate in the cleaning with a pure heart and consider it a service.
Special Rituals and Offerings in the Temple
During Lord Jagannath's stay at the Gundicha Temple, special worship is performed there. Every day, new types of offerings are presented, in which Odia cuisine has a special place. Especially, traditional dishes like dal, sweet rice, pitha, mahua, and sago kheer are offered to the Lord. The temple is decorated with flowers, lamps, and traditional decorative items, making the atmosphere even more grand.
A Special Experience for Devotees
During these seven days, the atmosphere of the Gundicha Temple becomes completely devotional. Pilgrims from all over the country stand in long queues to have darshan. Some sing hymns, some serve the Lord, and some are engaged in decorating the temple. During this time, a kind of divinity is felt within the temple complex, which gives peace and joy to the devotees' minds.
Bahuda Yatra: Preparation for the Return
After seven days, Lord Jagannath returns to the main temple from his aunt's house. This return is called Bahuda Yatra. On this day again, the three chariots are pulled by the devotees, and the entire city of Puri once again resounds with cheers. This journey is as grand and filled with joy as the first journey.
This Special Form of Lord Jagannath
During the Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra appear before the devotees in a slightly different form from their traditional form. People come from far and wide to catch a glimpse of the three siblings seated in these massive chariots made of wood. Many devotees consider it the greatest fortune of their lives just to touch the rope of these chariots.
A Sea of Faith Surges in Puri
Puri is completely immersed in the color of the devotees these days. From the railway station to near the temple, a wonderful sight of devotion, service, and love is visible everywhere. Local people are also leaving no stone unturned in welcoming the travelers coming from outside. The Rath Yatra has once again proved that the faith of the devotees towards Lord Jagannath reaches new heights every year.
