Festivals
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026: Date, Tithi, Rituals & Significance
Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2026: Date, Tithi & Significance of the Chariot Festival
Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra 2026, the grand “Festival of Chariots,” is one of the most awaited spiritual events in India. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Krishna), His brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, this festival commemorates their annual journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple in Puri, Odisha.
For 2026, the Rath Yatra falls on Thursday, July 16, 2026 (Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya).
🕉️ Bring Lord Jagannath’s Blessings Home
While millions visit Puri, you can invoke Lord Vishnu’s blessings at home. This day is highly auspicious for Griha Pravesh and Satyanarayan Puja.
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📅 Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026 Date & Tithi
| Event | Date & Time (IST) |
|---|---|
| Rath Yatra Date | July 16, 2026 (Thursday) |
| Dwitiya Tithi Begins | 11:50 AM on July 15, 2026 |
| Dwitiya Tithi Ends | 08:52 AM on July 16, 2026 |
| Bahuda Yatra (Return) | July 24, 2026 (Friday) |
*Note: The Rath Yatra procession begins in the morning of July 16th.
History of Rath Yatra: Why is it Celebrated?
The festival commemorates Lord Jagannath’s annual visit to his birthplace, the Gundicha Temple (often called His aunt’s home). It is said that whoever pulls the ropes of the chariots or even touches them is freed from the cycle of rebirth (Moksha).
The Legend of Kansa: Another legend states that Lord Krishna and Balaram boarded a chariot sent by Kansa to travel from Gokul to Mathura. This journey marked the beginning of the end for the demon king Kansa.
The Three Divine Chariots
New chariots are constructed every year using specific wood (Neem) and are pulled by millions of devotees.
1. Nandighosa (Lord Jagannath)
The largest chariot, towering at 45 feet with 16 wheels. It is covered in Red and Yellow cloth. Four white horses draw this majestic vehicle.
2. Taladhwaja (Lord Balabhadra)
Standing 44 feet high with 14 wheels, this chariot is draped in Red and Green cloth. It is identified by the Palm Tree insignia on its flag.
3. Darpadalana (Goddess Subhadra)
The smallest chariot at 43 feet with 12 wheels. It is covered in Red and Black cloth (associated with Shakti) and is pulled by red horses.
Key Rituals of the Festival
- Pahandi: The ceremonial procession where the deities are carried from the temple to their chariots by swaying them rhythmically.
- Chhera Pahara: The Gajapati King of Puri sweeps the floor of the chariots with a golden broom, symbolizing that even the king is a servant of the Lord.
- Gundicha Yatra: The 3km journey to the Gundicha Temple, where the deities reside for 9 days.
- Bahuda Yatra: The return journey to the main Jagannath Temple.
How to Observe Rath Yatra at Home?
Not everyone can travel to Puri. However, you can connect with the divine energy of this day from home:
- Watch Live Telecast: Viewing the Rath Yatra is considered as auspicious as being there.
- Chant Vishnu Sahasranama: Reciting the 1000 names of Lord Vishnu invokes the same blessings.
- Offer “Chappan Bhog”: Offer 56 items or simple sweets like Malpua and Kheer to Lord Jagannath.
- Perform Satyanarayan Puja: This is an excellent day to perform this puja for family harmony.
Book Vedic Services with SmartPuja
Whether you need a Pandit for Griha Pravesh on this auspicious Dwitiya Tithi or a Satyanarayan Puja, SmartPuja has you covered.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026 falls on Thursday, July 16, 2026.
Yes, the Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya is considered highly auspicious for new beginnings, including Griha Pravesh.
The return journey of the deities to the main temple is called Bahuda Yatra, which will take place on July 24, 2026.
