The Hindu: Page 06
Syllabus: GS 1: Art and Culture
In Puri, Odisha, amidst intense heat, lakhs of devotees gathered for the annual Rath Yatra.
- Rituals spanned two days, a rare occurrence since 1971.Despite police efforts to manage crowds, one devotee tragically died in the rush.
About Shree Jagannath Temple:
- It is a Hindu temple located in Puri, Odisha.
- It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of the Hindu deity Vishnu.
- It is believed to have been built during the reign of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, in the 12th century.
Architecture:
- It is a striking example of Kalinga architecture, a distinct style prevalent in the Odisha region.
- The temple complex includes shrines, gardens and sacred tanks, creating a serene atmosphere for devotion.
- The temple’s main structure, the sanctum sanctorum, or the garbhagriha, houses the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra.
- At the pinnacle of the temple, there is a 20-foot-high chakra (wheel) that is positioned in a way to be visible from any part of the city.
- It is also one of the four sacred pilgrimage sites, known as the Chaar Dhaams, that hold great significance for Hindus.
- It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Annual Rath Yatra or Chariot Festival:
- Significance: Celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
- Typically held in the month of June or July, on the second day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Ashadha.
- Rituals: Priests perform special rituals to prepare the three massive chariots (Rathas) for the deities.
- Chariots: Three main chariots named Nandighosa (Jagannath’s chariot), Taladhwaja (Balabhadra’s chariot), and Darpadalana (Subhadra’s chariot) are adorned with colourful decorations and icons.
- Procession: Thousands of devotees pull the chariots with ropes through the streets of Puri amidst chanting, music, and festivities.
- Tradition: Symbolises the journey of the deities to their aunt’s place, reflecting familial ties and communal harmony.
- Spiritual Significance: Believed to cleanse sins and bestow blessings upon devotees who participate or witness the procession.
- Attracts pilgrims and tourists worldwide, recognized for its cultural richness and religious fervour.
- Accompanied by traditional dances, music performances, and religious discourses during the festival period.
PYQ UPSC Prelims : (2022)
Q.1) The Prime Minister recently inaugurated the new Circuit House near Somnath Temple Veraval. Which of the following statements are correct regarding Somnath Temple?
1. Somnath Temple is one of the Jyotirlinga shrines.
2. A description of Somnath Temple was given by Al-Biruni.
3. Pran Pratishtha of Somnath Temple (installation of the present day temple) was done by President S. Radhakrishnan.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1,2 and 3
Ans : a)
