Rath Yatra or Ghosa Yatra in Srimandir – Part 2

Jai Jagannath, Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya.

Various Gundicha Yatras are celebrated in the Srimandir. These are:

(1) Shakta Gundicha
(2) Saura Gundicha
(3) Shaiva Gundicha
(4) Sri Gundicha

(1) ‘Shakta Gundicha’ or ‘Sharadiya Gundicha’: This yatra is observed from Ashwina Krushna Ashtami (the 8th day of the dark fortnight of Ashwina month), also known as Mulastami, until Ashwina Shukla Navami (the 9th day of the bright fortnight of Ashwina month), also known as Mahanavami. In this festival, since the deities Durga and Madhava travel in a well-decorated chariot-shaped vimana (a type of palanquin or divine vehicle), it is named ‘Shakta Gundicha’ or ‘Sharadiya Gundicha’.

(2) Saura Gundicha or Chaitra Gundicha or Saura-Rathayatra: On the Shasthi tithi (6th day) of the Shukla Paksha (bright fortnight) of the Chaitra month, the Saura Rathayatra ritual is performed within the premises of the Surya Mandir (Sun Temple) located inside the inner enclosure (Bhitara Bedha) of the Srimandir. The Chalanti Bigraha (movable representative idol) of Surya (the Sun God) from the Surya Mandir inside the Srimandir is seated on a chariot and circumambulates the inner enclosure.

Jai Jagannath, Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Namah.

“Delve into the special Gundicha Yatras of Puri! Discover unique festive traditions and bring home authentic items celebrating these sacred journeys of Lord Jagannath.”