Rath Yatra 2023: Artistes gear up to dance to the tune of devotion

Come Rath Yatra and let the tune of the devotion make us all move. While Rath Yatra is approaching fast, the dance artistes in the pilgrim town of Puri are counting days to take part in the annual sojourn of Lord Jagannath and his siblings. 

With Odissi dance form having a strong connection with the Jagannath culture, the dance artistes are eagerly waiting to serve their artistic offering to the Lord of the Universe. 

“Dance has a very strong connection with Jagannath culture. When the construction of Srimandir began there were two dance forms-Gotipua and Devadasi,” an Odissi dance teacher said.

“I am very fortunate that I am getting the opportunity to dance in front of Lord Jagannath. I must have done something really good in my past life, for which I took birth in the land of Jagannath and serving him with my dance. I cannot express my feeling in words,” an artiste said.

Another Odissi dancer said, “Lakhs of devotees throng Puri to participate in the Rath Yatra. I am fortunate to offer Lord Jagannath my art. ”

Rath Yatra this year will begin on June 20.