Ulto Rath Yatra 2021

The majestic Jagannath Temple in Puri is a major pilgrimage destination for Hindus and is a part of the “Char Dham” pilgrimages. Jagannatha is not the only deity worshipped in the temple, though it is known as the ‘Jagannatha Temple’. The deities of the Puri temple are generally known as the Trimurti (trinity) and also as Chaturdhamurti. The temple was originally built by the Kalinga ruler Anantavarman Chodaganga(1078 – 1148 CE). Much of the present structure was built by King Ananga Bhima Deva in the year 1174 CE. It took 14 years to complete and was consecrated in 1198 CE.

Ulto Rath Yatra

The return journey of the Lord from the Gundicha temple begins on Ashadha Shukla Paksha Dashami. The return trip is called Ulta or Bahuda Rath Yatra. This ritual is also referred to as the Dakshanibhimukhi Yatra as the chariots start moving towards the Southern direction. The return journey also features several practices such as the Senapatalagi,  Mangalarpana and Bandapana. The Gods are treated with a special dessert called Poda Peetha as they reach Mausi Maa temple en route.

Subsequently, the chariots of Balbhadra and Subhadra proceed towards the main temple’s Singhadwara (lion’s gate) while Lord Jagannath waits for Goddess’s Lakshmi’s arrival at the Shreenahara. To check out the interesting facts about the chariots, Then, Goddess Lakshmi arrives at Shreenahara in a palanquin for a few rituals.

Eventually, Lord Jagannath proceeds towards the Shreemandira (Puri temple) to join his siblings for the remaining customary practices such as the Suna Besha, Adhara Pana and Niladri Bije.

Suna Besha is a custom that is held on the Ekadashi Tithi. The deities, who are still on their chariot get decorated with gold ornaments. Then, on the Dwadashi Tithi, the Gods and the Goddess are offered a special drink made of cheese, milk, sugar, and other ingredients. This is called Adhara Pana. And on Trayodhashi Tithi, the deities enter the Shreemandira (Puri temple) from their respective chariots. This ritual is called the Niladri Bije. Subsequently, the Lord gives Darshan to the devotees from the Garbha Griha (sanctum sanctorum. Thus, the world-famous Rath Yatra comes to an end.