18 years of vibrant tradition & devotion at RCM Rath Yatra
Bhubaneswar: Rath Yatra at RCM Jagannath Temple has become a cherished tradition with a vibrant celebration that draws over 40,000 devotees every year. Since its inception in 2007, following the inauguration of the main temple, the chariot festival has become a significant event for the local community and beyond, as thousands gather to witness the divine journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
Each year, as the deities emerge from their sanctum sanctorum, the air is filled with a palpable sense of devotion and reverence. The idols, crafted from the same wood and of similar size as those used in the Puri Jagannath Temple, hold immense significance for devotees, creating a spiritual connection.
The origins of the RCM Jagannath Temple and its Rath Yatra are steeped in a fascinating tale. It all began with Prabir Pal, chairman of the temple trust, who was inspired by a mysterious meeting.
An unidentified person urged him to establish the temple, akin to the Puri shrine. Sceptical yet intrigued, Pal visited the Puri temple, seeking a sign. To his astonishment, a servitor presented him with the 'agyan mala' of the deities, a gesture that solidified his resolve to build the temple.
"With the blessings of the Lord and support of the Jagannath community in Puri, we successfully established our temple. Since then, we are organising the Rath Yatra and performing all rituals," said Pal, who performs the 'Chhera Pahanra' during the RCM Rath Yatra.
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Ranjan Mohanty, manager of the temple trust, said Pal, dressed as Gajapati, sweeps the chariot with a golden broom on Rath Yatra day. "We follow the same traditions which are followed during Puri Rath Yatra," he said.
The festival is a spectacle to behold, featuring a 26-ft high chariot crafted by skilled carpenters from Begunia, a village renowned for its artisans. The chariot carries the deities to the Sri Gundicha Temple, located about 1.5km from the main temple, amid a sea of devotees.
A unique aspect of the Rath Yatra is the enthusiastic participation of thousands of tribals from nearby areas. Dressed in their traditional attire, they perform Dhemsa dance, and drink Handia, adding a vibrant cultural dimension to the festival.
Sarada Prasad Mishra, chief priest of the temple, said the rituals during Rath Yatra are meticulously observed. He said the deities, currently in Anasara Gruha, will undergo specific rituals before embarking on their journey.
"We apply 'fuluri tel' and administer 'dasamularistha' to cure their fever before Rath Yatra. Both medicines are meticulously prepared following the steps prescribed in scriptures," Mishra said.
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