Ratha Jatra 2018 : Effect On My Senses

Ratha Jatra i.e. Rath Yatra, is a centuries-old festival of Odisha that is celebrated all across the world. One of the four holiest places of India (Dhaam) is Puri in Odisha where the Shree Jagannath Temple is located.

In Odia language, 'Ratha' means Chariot (Car) and 'Jatra' means Festival. 

Thus, 'Ratha Jatra' means 'Chariot Festival' or 'Car Festival'.

In Odisha, every locality has its own Ratha Jatra(s).

The capital of Odisha, Bhubaneswar, is also called the 'Temple City' because of its hundreds of temples.

I participated in the Ratha Jatra at the Sri Sri Baba Akhandalamani Temple in Sahid Nagar at Bhubaneswar yesterday. 

Rasagola Dibasa

Here is a Quiz/GK question for you:

"In which state did the sweet-dish Rasgulla or Rasagola originate?"

Image Courtesy

If you answered- Odisha or Orissa, then full marks to you.

Many do not know the birthplace of the Rasagola. The popular perception is different.
On learning this, some get emotionally charged up, some others feel it is funny, while many disbelieve.

Actually, Rasagolas have been associated for centuries with the Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri in Odisha.
The last day of the Rath Yatra, called Niladri Bije, is the only day when Lord Jagannath is offered Rasagolas as prasad by His devotees.
Also, Lord Jagannath Himself offers Rasagolas to please His consort, Maa Laxmi.
The Lord gifts Rasagolas to Maa Laxmi to gain entrance into the Temple.