Rathyatra (The Chariot Festival) Puri, India and Calgary US
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There are few countries in the world that has been the centre of religious celebrations for centuries and India certainly has been a pioneer in all such events. In this mystic country, people take their religious beliefs very seriously and tend to believe that life is a celebration which if rightly lived can lead to path of salvation. The Rathyatra in Puri, Orissa is one such celebration that has sure proved a blessing for everyone who has made the slightest of effort to be part of it. Grand chariots and the colorful aura can transform you to a world that is magical and unbelievable.
The Rathyatra in the year 2010 will commence on July 13, which would be the auspicious day when the deities of Lord Jagannath along with his sister Goddess Subhadra and elder brother Lord Balabhadra taken to Gundicha Temple on beautifully designed chariots. The procession starts from Sri Mandira where the deities stay for rest of the year. Rathyatra is one of the most colorful celebrations in India and lakhs of devotees come from every corner just to get a glimpse of the chariot and get blessings of the Lord of the universe. Every pilgrim who comes for this celebration holds the belief that just by touching any part of chariot he can move ahead on path of deliverance.
The deities return to the Sri Mandira after a week in new form and new costumes. This vibrant celebration includes many intricate aspects of the rich Indian culture which includes making rangoli, preparing delicious local delicacies and everything that makes this part of the world so distinct culturally. India has always welcomed everyone who has wished to be part of the varied culture and all the foreign tourists who come for the Rathyatra experience the warm hospitality and get a unique chance to get the best of all worlds.
