Shree Jagannath
Seva Trust of Carolinas 

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Chariot Decoration

(9:30 - 11:00am)

Great care and attention is paid to the decoration of the chariot. The wood is carved with designs inspired by Odisha temple architecture. The canopies of the chariot are covered in intricately embroidered green, black, yellow, and red cloth.

Chhera Pahara

(11:00 - 11:30am)

The most important part of the ritual is Chera Pahara. As a part of this ritual, Gajapati - the King of Puri, sweeps the floors of the chariot. This ceremony stresses on the dignity of labor. There is no task, which is low or high in the eyes of the Lord.

Chariot Pulling

(11:30-12:30pm)

The most exciting part of the Rath Yatra is the pulling of chariots by thousands of people who lay their hands on the sturdy ropes and drag the massive structures along the Bada-Danda, the grand road. The enthusiasm and the excitement of Lord Jagannath’s devotees fill the whole atmosphere of Puri with religious spirit that can only be felt and never can be described. It is believed that the chariots, the rope, the wheels all become one with the Lord Jagannath and one who even touches them makes way for his salvation

Cultural Event

(1:00-4:00pm)

While the lord of Universe (lord Jagannath) rests on his vacation at his aunts home, 6 different classical dance forms presented Mesmerizing Odissi Dance performance by artist from all over USA. Beautiful Classical Dance performance by Local dancers. Folk dances by Local Dance group too.

Bahuda Jatra

(5:00 - 6:00pm)

The deities, after the stay at Gundicha temple, Aunt's Home of Lords, commence their return journey, the Bahuda Yatra. The chariot pulled by devotees, reach back the main temple.

 

Sona Besha

(6:00 - 6:30pm)

The deities will be decorated with gold color beautiful costume.

 

Maha Prasad

6:30pm

Mahaprasad is cooked in earthen pots inside the temple kitchen. When the cooked food is carried to the offering hall in slings of earthen pots no flavor comes up from the food but when the same is offered to Lords and carried back to the distribution point, a delicious smell spells along in the breeze to the pleasant surprise of the devotees. Now the food is blessed.