The Rath Yatra of Puri is a grand annual festival during which Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, embarks on a ceremonial journey from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.
At the heart of this procession is Nandighosa, Lord Jagannath’s majestic chariot. Here are some key facts about it:
Lord Jagannath's chariot is named Nandighosa. It is also referred to as Garudadhwaja and Kapidhwaja, reflecting its deep spiritual symbolism.
Standing at approximately 45 feet in height and measuring 34.6 feet in both length and breadth, Nandighosa is the largest among the three chariots. It is constructed using 832 pieces of wood and is supported by 16 wheels, each about 7 feet in diameter.
The chariot is adorned with a vibrant red and yellow canopy, colours traditionally associated with Lord Vishnu, signifying divinity and auspiciousness.
Daruka serves as the symbolic charioteer of Nandighosa, guiding the chariot during the procession.
Garuda, the eagle mount of Lord Vishnu, is considered the guardian of the chariot. The chariot's flag is named Trailokyamohini.
Nandighosa is drawn by four white wooden horses named Shankha, Balahaka, Sweta, and Haridaswa, symbolizing purity and strength.
The chariot features emblems of the Sudarshana Chakra and Shankha (conch), along with representations of various deities such as Varaha, Narasimha, Rama, and Hanuman.
Devotees pull Nandighosa using a sacred rope known as Shankhachuda, emphasizing communal participation in the divine journey.
During the return journey, Nandighosa makes a significant stop near the Samadhi (tomb) of Salabega, a revered Muslim devotee of Lord Jagannath, honouring his unwavering devotion.