Lord Jagannath's Rath Yatra to be held on July 16; A grand festival of faith, harmony, and public welfare: Sanjay Sarraf
Ranchi: Sanjay Sarraf, Provincial Spokesperson for the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (Service Wing) and the Shri Krishna Pranami Seva Dham Trust, announced that the sacred Rath Yatra (Chariot Procession) of Lord Jagannath will take place this year on July 16 (Thursday), coinciding with *Ashadh Shukla Dwitiya*. This is one of the major festivals of Sanatan Dharma and is celebrated across the country with great devotion and enthusiasm.
He explained that, according to ancient belief, Lord Shri Krishna (Jagannath) once set out on a tour of the city in a chariot, accompanied by his sister Subhadra and elder brother Balbhadra. Another belief holds that on this day, Lord Jagannath visits the Gundicha Temple—the home of his maternal aunt. The Rath Yatra is organized annually to commemorate this event.
Sanjay Sarraf stated that this grand festival is not merely a religious event; it conveys a message of faith, service, harmony, equality, and public welfare. On this day, the Lord himself steps out of the temple to be among his devotees, signifying that God belongs to everyone and His doors are open equally to all individuals.
He added that pulling the chariot's rope is considered an act of immense spiritual merit. Devotees believe that catching a glimpse of Lord Jagannath and participating in pulling the chariot brings happiness, peace, prosperity, and spiritual advancement. This grand festival also strengthens the spirit of love, brotherhood, and universal fellowship.
