Rath Yatra

Baripada Rath Yatra

Article by: © Meenakshi Subramaniam 2012

Think Juggernaut. Your mind evokes images of a huge, crushing rolling force that spares nothing in its way. This word springs from Lord Jagannatha, the presiding deity of the state of Orissa, India. Lord Jagannatha, (Vishnu) reigns from his magnificent temple at Puri, flanked by his sister, Subhadra and younger brother, Balabhadra.

The month of Ashada, (June-July), every year is a time for celebrations for the Oriya people and for the whole of India. It is during this time that all three deities are taken in a grand, procession in specially made huge chariots called Rathas. The Puri Rath Yatra is probably the most famous ride that any god can take in India and is world renown for the crowds that it attracts. Enthusiastic devotees, nearly lose their lives in the milling crowds and under the huge wheels, while trying to touch the sacred rope that is used to pull the chariots. (See the connection with Juggernaut?)

Equally of interest, but not nearly as imposing is the Rath Yatra that takes place at nearby Baripada. The same three deities are revered in similar looking chariots, but the chariot of Subhadra is drawn exclusively by women. Young and old, strong and frail, they gather in huge numbers to pay obeisance to the younger sister of the Lord. There are many "Women Only" rituals and traditions in the Hindu family, but this is probably one of the few public occasions that display female solidarity.

Subhadra's chariot, painted a deep red is called the Padmadhwaja (or the Taladhwaja); it stands at a height of nearly 10 meters. Baripada's women feel privileged to pull the trundling edifice along and look upon it is a sacred religious duty. But, it was not always so. The tradition, surprisingly is very recent. The responsibility of handling the chariot was awarded to women, only in 1975, during Mrs. Indira Gandhi's rule.

As the ladies point out, this is a very satisfactory arrangement. Religious fairs and festivals, in India, can be crowded affairs at the best of times. An exclusive women's event keeps the wolves at bay (read "lecherous male population"), besides offering a welcome break from kitchen chores.

Women's organisations view the event with mixed feelings, but the ladies at Baripada seem to be enjoying it every bit of the crowded way.

Rath Yatra Dates, Location and Further Information

The month of Ashada, (June-July), every year is a time for celebrations for the Oriya people and for the whole of India.

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