"The Rath Yatra: A Symbol of Unity and Devotion

RATH Yatra or chariot festival is celebrated on 27th June in honour of Lord Jagannath who is one of the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology. RathYatra is a symbol of unity, brotherhood, and peace. This is one of the most important festivals celebrated across India. It signifies a journey through life with family members. The emergence of the god from the temple is a symbol of his presence among ordinary men on earth. The English word ‘juggernaut’ is derived from Jagannath.

- Vinod Chandrashekhar Dixit

The rites associated with the journey of Jagannath and his two companions from the great temple and their return nine days later has been recalled. Prajnanananda Paramahansa says"He is the eye of all eyes, the nose of all noses, the ear of all ears. - He is the Lord of ever changing cosmos. The Lord of the universe or jagat, is Jagannath."