Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023: Why Lord Jagannath Chariot Halt At Mazar (Tomb)?

Wednesday, June 21, 2023, 15:15

Jagannath Rath Yatra is organised every year at the famous Jagannath temple in Puri, Odisha and there are day-wise rituals that are followed during this festival. This day is based on the Hindu Lunar Calendar and is observed on Dwitiya Tithi during Shukla Paksha of Ashada month, which means it will be either in the month of June or July.

Odisha is known for its vibrant culture, art, food, festivals etc. and when it comes to celebrating Rath Yatra, the footfall doubles in Puri. Lord Jagannath Temple is known as one of the holy shrines of India and every year this grand chariot journey starts on the second date of Shukla Paksha of Ashadh month. It is the only temple where Lord Jagannath is seated with his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra.

There are so many mythological stories around this festival that leave the devotees curious. Let us know why Lord Jagannath's chariot halts at Mazar during the rath yatra.

Jagannath Rath Yatra 2023: Why Does Lord Jagannath Chariot Halt At Mazar?

On the day of Rath Yatra, when Lord Jagannath's chariot leaves the Jagannath temple, devotees gather for the darshan of their favourite deity. They beat drums and chant 'Jai Jagannath' on this day. His chariot is accompanied by the chariot of his elder brother Balarama and younger sister Subhadra.

This grand event is organized only for the three brothers and sisters to visit the city. But the devotees involved in this journey are surprised when the Lord's chariot stops at a tomb or Mazar when he is known as the Lord of the Universe and it is he who runs the world.

Legend has it that there was a Muslim devotee of Lord Jagannath named Salabega who had great faith in the Lord Jagannath and was totally engrossed in his devotion. He was a religious poet in the early 17th century who wrote Jagannatha bhajans. It is believed that once Lord Jagannath appeared in the dream of devotee Salbeg and the next day the devotee gave up his life.

After his death, when the Jagannath Rath Yatra was taken out, suddenly the chariot stopped at the shrine. After people prayed to Lord Jagannath for the peace of Salbeg's soul and the grand journey started again. This custom is still practised today. Therefore, whenever Lord Jagannath Rath Yatra starts every year, the chariot is halted for some time at the tomb of his devotee.

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