Symbolically, the Rath Yatra (chariot festival) is a journey to light from the dark and begins on the second day of the bright fortnight in the month of Asad (June-July). It commemorates the journey of Krishna from Gokul to Mathura. This festival is celebrated at Puri with great pomp and ceremony. In this religious journey, Jagannath, Subhadra and Balbhadra are taken out in procession in three raths (chariots). The main rath is 43 ft high, 33 ft wide and has 16 wheels. The ropes of the chariots are pulled by millions of devotees.
rath yatra
Nava Kalebara
When two months of Ashadha fall in one year, Rath Yatra is observed as the festival of Nabakalebar the old deities are buried within the temple premises (Koilibaikuntha) and are replaced by new deities, carved out of Margosa trees for which there are set procedures. Double Ashadha occurs at intervals of 8 to 19 years. As history records, Nabakalebar was held in 1996, 1977, 1969, 1950 and 1931 during the past century.
crowd in new merine drive
Beach Festival
Non-religious in nature, this festival showcases the best of Orissa’s folk and classical dance forms, music, and handicrafts. Celebrated in the later part of March or early April, this festival also succeeds in drawing a good number of crowds towards it. If one is visiting the place during the festival time, one must not miss this opportunity to witness the cultural riches of the entire state.
