Ratha Yatra: Chariot Festival of Sri Jagannatha in Puri

Ratha Yatra, the ancient festival of chariot journey by Jagannatha, the presiding deity of the great temple Srimandira at Puri, is one of the grandest spectacles on earth. Jagannatha and his siblings, Balabhadra and Subhadra, ride three colourful chariots in their annual sojourn to their garden house and birthplace, the Gundicha Temple, where they stay for seven days before returning. Full of drama and a panoply of rituals and ceremonies, Ratha Yatra is rooted in ancient traditions, myths, and legends, and embodies the most colourful elements of the classical and folk cultures of the Indian subcontinent and the Odisha region. This book provides a comprehensive account of Ratha Yatra, a great socio-cultural and religious event and phenomenon unique in the world. It includes background on the syncretic faith represented by Jagannatha, including his origin and strong links to the heritage of aboriginal tribes, as well as an account of the Naba Kalebara ceremonies, which celebrate the periodic renewal of the bodies of the presiding deities. Rich in detail, the book spans a wide range, including the sacred geography of Puri, legends surrounding the temple, the unique architectural style of the temple complex, the elaborate preparatory summer festivals leading up to the main festival, and the process of making the chariots, along with their associated special ceremonies. It brings to life every stage of the intricate rituals and ceremonies, which last almost two months, providing a complete portrayal of the different phases of the festival.