Nuapada: A unique and vibrant tradition of Lord Jagannath has been flourishing for the last 27 years. The village comes alive with fervour and devotion in the last part of the holy month Karttik as it celebrates a two-day Rath Yatra, known as Bali Rath Yatra, a spectacle that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.
During this extraordinary event, the revered Chaturdha Murti-Lord Jagannath and his siblings Devi Subhadra and Lord Balabhadra, are carried in a majestic chariot to the aunt’s house, where they remain for two days before returning to the original abode. The religious event commences on the 14th day of Kartik Month and concludes on the next day, the full moon day.
The tradition has its roots in a divine dream experienced by the chief priest in which Lord Jagannath himself instructed him to hold a Bali Rath Yatra in Konavira village.
The celebrations are marked by a range of rituals and ceremonies, including the enchanting Raas Lila,Bali Yatra and Sankirtan.
The chariot, adorned with intricate designs and colourful decorations carried the Holy Trinity, comprising Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra, to the revered Birajeswar temple in the village slum, where they are treated to Bali Yatra and Sankirtan.
“The Rath Yatra is held every year on the 14th day of Kartik month. The Holy Trinity is carried on a beautifully decorated chariot, which visits the Birajeswar temple at the village slum, where the Trinity enjoys the Bali Yatra and Sankirtan before returning to their abode on the full moon day”, said Jagannath Majhi, the chief priest of the temple.
