Jagannath Rath Yatra 2027 Date: 5 July, Puri Chariot Festival
Jagannath Rath Yatra 2027 is on Monday, 5 July 2027, on Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya. The Dwitiya tithi runs from 4:51 AM on 5 July to 1:13 AM on 6 July (IST). In Puri, Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are drawn in three giant wooden chariots from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
| Date | Monday, 5 July 2027 |
| Tithi | Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya |
| Dwitiya tithi (IST) | 4:51 AM, 5 July to 1:13 AM, 6 July |
| Return journey (Bahuda Yatra) | about nine days later, per the temple calendar |
What is the Rath Yatra?
The Rath Yatra is the chariot festival of Puri, Odisha, one of the oldest and largest Hindu festivals. Once a year the deities leave the sanctum of the Jagannath Temple and travel about 3 km along the Bada Danda (Grand Road) to the Gundicha Temple, regarded as the home of their aunt, where they stay for about a week before returning. Because the deities come out among the people, the festival is open to all, regardless of caste or faith.
The three chariots
| Chariot | Deity | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Nandighosha | Lord Jagannath | 16 wheels; red and yellow |
| Taladhwaja | Balabhadra | 14 wheels; red and green |
| Darpadalana | Devi Subhadra | 12 wheels; red and black |
The chariots are built afresh every year from specific types of wood by hereditary carpenters, and dismantled after the festival.
Key rituals around the Rath Yatra
- Snana Purnima: a ceremonial bath of the deities on Jyeshtha Purnima, after which they are believed to fall ill and rest out of public view (Anasara).
- Netrotsav: the deities reappear the day before the Rath Yatra.
- Chhera Pahanra: the Gajapati King of Puri sweeps the chariots with a golden broom, symbolising that all are equal before the Lord.
- Bahuda Yatra: the return journey to the main temple.
- Suna Besha: the deities are adorned with gold ornaments on their chariots after returning.
Rath Yatras are also held in Ahmedabad, Kolkata and by ISKCON in many cities worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
When is Rath Yatra 2027?
Monday, 5 July 2027, in Puri and across India.
Who can pull the chariots?
Devotees of all backgrounds take part in pulling the ropes; it is considered highly meritorious.
