Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026: As happens every year, the grand Rath Yatra (Chariot Procession) of Lord Jagannath will commence from Puri, Odisha, on the *Dwitiya Tithi* (second day) of the *Shukla Paksha* (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of *Ashadha*. The Puri Rath Yatra is set to begin on July 16, 2026. People from across the country and the world participate in this magnificent event. On this day, Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra, emerges from the temple riding separate, grand chariots and travels through the city to the Gundicha Temple. Devotees pull the Lord's chariot using ropes with immense devotion. The deities then stay at their aunt's home for a few days. But do you know why the Rath Yatra is organized annually and why the Lord visits his aunt's home? Let us explore the mythological beliefs behind this.

Why is the Jagannath Rath Yatra organized?
The Rath Yatra takes place every year on the *Dwitiya Tithi* of the *Shukla Paksha* in the month of *Ashadha*. Its primary objective is to take Lord Jagannath to his aunt's home, where he stays for a few days. On this day, Lord Jagannath sets out from the temple with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra to the Gundicha Temple—his aunt's home—located about three kilometers away, where they reside for seven days.

Why does He visit His aunt's home, and what are the beliefs?
Lord Jagannath visits his aunt's home every year. According to mythology, when Lord Krishna assumed the throne of Dwarka, he promised Radha and all the residents of Braj that he would return to meet them at least once a year. The Rath Yatra is organized to fulfill this promise; the Lord comes amidst his devotees, visits his aunt's home at the Gundicha Temple, and receives her affection. During this time, a special delicacy known as *Poda Pitha* is offered to the deities.

Duration of the Lord's stay at His aunt's home
Lord Jagannath stays at his aunt's home for a total of seven days, accompanied by Balabhadra and Subhadra. Worship and offerings (*bhog*) are performed at the Shri Gundicha Temple throughout these seven days. Then, upon the completion of the seven days, the Lord returns to His temple in Puri during the *Bahuda Yatra*.

**Religious Significance of Rath Yatra**
Every year, on the second day (*Dwitiya*) of the bright fortnight (*Shukla Paksha*) of the month of Ashadha, Lord Jagannath emerges from the sanctum sanctorum of His temple to grant *darshan* to His devotees and stays at His aunt's house for seven days. During the *Rath Yatra*, devotees pull the Lord's chariot using ropes—an act considered highly meritorious. It is believed that pulling Lord Jagannath's chariot washes away all sins and leads to *Moksha* (salvation).

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