India is a country known for many things – intense heat, beautiful natural surroundings and a rather hectic way of life being the most notable.
It’s also a country known for its vibrant and colourful religious culture, with breathtaking celebrations that amaze anyone who visits.
One such celebration is Rath Yatra, or the festival of Chariots, which takes place in the city of Puri in late June each year.
Rath Yatra finished on Friday, marking the end of nine days of Hindu celebration that sees thousands of people descend on the holy city.
The huge celebrations are in commemoration of Lord Jagannath’s journey from his temple in Puri to his garden palace Gundicha, along with his elder brother Lord Balabhadra and his sister Lady Subhadra.
Rath Yatra has become one of the biggest religious celebrations in the world, and sees idols of the three deities placed on three chariots and pulled to Gundicha Temple.
The three idols are taken from the temple in Puri at the start of the festival – the only time when non-Hindus and foreigners can catch a glimpse of them – and are dragged the 2km on the handcrafted chariots.
While the idols are the most important aspect of the festivities to Hindus, it is the chariots that are the most breathtaking.
Newly constructed each year, the three chariots are huge structures boasting colourful decorations and traditional construction dating back hundreds of years.
Made with the wood of specified trees, and built by carpenters who have hereditary rights to the construction, the chariots are around 40ft high and have between 12 and 14 wheels.
The festival can be a little dangerous, as the huge chariots make their way through the thronging crowds. But it is a testament to the importance of Rath Yatra that so many people journey to Puri to take part in this unique celebration.
(Images: Swami Gaurangapada, GU Tolkiehn)
