By Admin 
Located in the heart of Bhubaneswar Lingaraja Temple Every year one witnesses such a grand festival, which is a wonderful confluence of faith, tradition and cultural energy. This is ‘Rukuna Rath Yatra’, to see which lakhs of devotees come here from far and wide.
It is not only a religious event, but also a symbol of the vibrant heritage and deep faith of Odisha.
What is the importance of Rukuna Rath Yatra?
This yatra, organized on the holy occasion of Ashokashtami, is considered one of the major festivals of Odisha. On this day, Lord Lingaraj, who is considered the guardian deity of Ekamra region, goes out for a tour of the city riding on a grand chariot.
The echo of drums, melodious tunes of folk music and shouts of “Hari Bol” and “Hulhuli” make the entire atmosphere devotional. Devotees believe that sins are destroyed by just seeing God during this Rath Yatra, hence it is also called ‘Paap Binashi Yatra’.
Grand event and route of the yatra
This year Rukuna Rath Yatra will start at around 10:45 am Lingaraja Temple starting from Rameshwar Temple Will go till. In this procession, Goddess Rukmini (Shakti Swarupa) and Lord Vasudev are also present along with Lord Lingaraj.
Thousands of devotees pull this huge chariot under the leadership of ‘Pattus’ (servants). Folk dance, traditional instruments and religious enthusiasm are worth seeing throughout the route. Keeping the crowd in mind, special security and arrangements are made by the administration.
Mythology and History
There are many ancient beliefs related to Rukuna Rath Yatra, which are mentioned in Ekamra Purana Get in.
- Relation to Ram Katha:
It is recognized that lord ram After killing Ravana, Lord Shiva was worshiped in this area to get freedom from the sin of killing a Brahma. On the instructions of Lord Shiva, Ram established four Lingas here: Rameshwar, Lakshmaneshwar, Bharateshwar and Shatrughaneshwar. Rameshwar temple was established on the day of Ashok Ashtami, and from then onwards this journey is considered to be the beginning. - Story of Tripurasura slaughter:
According to another legend, Lord Shiva killed the demon named Tripurasura while riding on a chariot named ‘Rukuna’. To commemorate this victory, this Rath Yatra is taken out, in which Goddess Shakti (Rukmini) is with him.
customs and traditions
Rukuna Rath Yatra is known for its unique traditions:
- Mother Bhuvaneshwari sits on the chariot with Lord Lingaraj.
- Brahma himself is considered to be the charioteer of the chariot.
- Thousands of devotees pull the chariot together
- The chariot stops near the Rameshwar temple, where special puja rituals take place for four days.
- On the fifth day the Lord returns to Lingaraja temple in the same chariot.
A wonderful balance of faith, discipline and tradition is seen in this entire event.
Rukuna Rath Yatra is not just a religious festival but a living symbol of the spiritual heritage of Odisha. This festival not only brings the devotees closer to God, but also serves to unite the society and keep the cultural values alive.
If you ever visit Bhubaneswar, do experience this grand festival, it is not only seen but also felt.
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