Chandan Yatra
The Essence of Chandan Yatra
The festival gets its name from the fragrant sandalwood paste (chandan), which is used to put on the gods to make them cool. The rituals involve elaborate processions, devotional music, and a serene display of devotion as idols of deities are carried to a sacred pond for a ceremonial boat ride.
Chandan Yatra is a 42 day long festival, but the major segment of it is 21 days during which the deities are taken to a sacred Pond for a ceremonial sandalwood bath. The remaining 21 days are observed inside the temple complex, In which some other rituals are done by servitor.
Key Rituals and Celebrations
- First Phase (Bahara Chandan): The deities of Madanamohana, Bhudevi and Sridevi, representing lord jagannath and other temple deities are taken on great processions to Narendra Pokhari (a sacred Pond) and are placed on beautiful boats to cruise ritualistically.
- Second Phase (Bhitara Chandan): The second phase of the ceremony is performed inside the temple, where sandalwood paste is put on the idols and rituals are done.
Chanadn Yatra 2025 date
The Chandan Yatra 2025 will start from 30th April 2025 and this festival is dedicated to Lord Jagannath. A 21 day long festival, this big ritual sees the deities being taken in a ceremonial boat ride in the Narendra Pond, applying sandalwood (chandan) paste to sooth the deities in the summer heat. This makes it a spiritually enriching experience as a large number of devotees come to seek the divine’s blessings.
Significance
Chandan Yatra is a celebration of the affectionate union of devotees with the divine, and the Lord is honored for the compassion and care bestowed upon him. The festival also marks the beginning of the construction of the chariots for the annual Ratha Yatra, which shows its connection to Jagannatha’s bigger festive calendar.
Experience Chandan Yatra
The calmness of the ceremonial boat rides, and the devotion filled chants creates a spiritually touching experience. It is a perfect opportunity for pilgrims and visitors to witness the religious traditions of Odisha combined with natural beauty when you visit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Jagannath Chandan Yatra Puri 2025
1. What is Chandan Yatra?
Chandan Yatra, also known as the Sandalwood Festival, is a unique celebration dedicated to Lord Jagannatha and other deities in Puri. It marks the beginning of summer and provides relief to the deities during the hot months.
2. How long does Chandan Yatra last?
The festival is celebrated for 21 days, making it one of the longest-running festivals of the Jagannatha Temple.
3. Why is sandalwood used in Chandan Yatra?
Sandalwood paste (Chandan) is applied to the idols to cool them during the summer heat, signifying comfort and devotion.
4. What are the two phases of Chandan Yatra?
- Bahara Chandan (Outer Chandan Yatra): The deities of Madanamohana, Bhudevi, and Sridevi are taken in a grand procession to Narendra Pokhari, where they are placed on beautifully decorated boats for a ritualistic cruise.
- Bhitara Chandan (Inner Chandan Yatra): This phase takes place inside the temple, where sandalwood paste is applied to the deities, and special rituals are performed.
5. What is the significance of Chandan Yatra?
The festival symbolizes devotion and divine care, honoring Lord Jagannatha and reinforcing the bond between devotees and the deity. It also marks the beginning of the construction of the chariots for the annual Ratha Yatra.
6. Where does Chandan Yatra take place?
The main celebrations occur at the Jagannatha Temple in Puri, with the Narendra Pokhari pond being the key location for the boat rituals.
7. How can one experience Chandan Yatra?
Visitors can witness the ceremonial boat rides, grand processions, and devotional chants that create a spiritually enriching experience, blending religious traditions with Odisha’s natural beauty.
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