Chandan Yatra, also known as Gandhalepana Yatra, is one of the longest and most spiritually significant festivals celebrated in Odisha. Deeply connected with the traditions of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, this festival spans an impressive 42 days, beginning on Akshaya Tritiya—the third day of the bright fortnight in the month of Vaisakha (April–May). This day is considered highly auspicious across India, making it the perfect occasion to begin such a grand and divine celebration.
Rooted in centuries-old tradition, Chandan Yatra honours the playful and loving pastimes of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. Devotees believe that during the scorching summer months, the deities enjoy a soothing ritual involving sandalwood paste, cool breezes, water bodies, and devotional offerings — symbolizing comfort, purification, and divine pleasure.
A Festival of 42 Days: Unfolding in Two Sacred Phases
Chandan Yatra is celebrated in two major parts, each lasting 21 days, and each holding deep spiritual significance:
1. Bahara Chandan (Outer Chandan Yatra)
The first 21 days mark the outer journey of the deities. In the evenings, the representative idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out of the temple in a grand procession.
These beautifully decorated idols are placed on the Chandan Jatra Ratha, the largest among all ceremonial chariots of the Jagannath Temple. Accompanied by chanting, cymbals, conch shells, and traditional music, the procession moves toward Narendra Sarovar, a sacred lake in Puri.
At the lake, the deities board elaborately decorated boats and enjoy a divine boat ride, symbolising joy, recreation, and the cooling comfort of water during the summer heat. They are adorned with fragrant sandalwood paste, flowers, and offered refreshments.
2. Bhitara Chandan (Inner Chandan Yatra)
The second phase of the festival is known as the inner Chandan Yatra. For these 21 days, rituals take place inside the temple, and the ceremonial processions happen in the mornings instead of evenings.
The rituals focus more on internal purification and symbolic offerings, emphasising devotion, cooling treatments, and sacred worship within the temple premises.
Highlights & Lesser-Known Facts of Chandan Yatra
Chandan Yatra is filled with traditions and symbolic rituals, each carrying cultural and spiritual meaning. Here are some fascinating aspects:
- Historical Origins:
The festival is believed to have been initiated by King Kapilendra Deva in the 15th century, a devoted worshipper of Lord Jagannath. - Largest Ceremonial Chariot:
The Chandan Jatra Ratha used for the festival is the biggest among all chariots of the Jagannath Temple. - Sacred Sandalwood:
The sandalwood (chandan) used during this festival is sourced from the Gandhamardan Hills, famous for their rich medicinal forests. - Multiple Deities Worshipped:
Apart from the holy trio, idols of Ganesha, Saraswati, Mahalakshmi, and several other deities are worshipped during the festival. - Cultural Festivities:
Traditional dance, drama, and music fill the streets of Puri during evening rituals, turning the city into a vibrant cultural hub. - Symbolic Boat Ride:
The boat journey on Narendra Sarovar represents the deities’ cosmic travel to their divine abode — a symbolic recreation of celestial pastimes. - Statewide Celebration:
While Puri is the heart of Chandan Yatra, the festival is also celebrated in cities like Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, Kendrapara, and Balasore, each with unique local traditions.
The Spiritual Essence of Chandan Yatra
Beyond rituals and celebrations, Chandan Yatra carries a profound message. It represents cooling the mind, calming the senses, and embracing purity during the intense summer heat. Just as the deities are comforted with sandalwood and water, devotees believe that observing the festival brings inner peace, mental clarity, and spiritual harmony.
The festival encourages people to celebrate life, unity, devotion, and the bonds that tie communities together. It reflects Odisha’s deep connection to its traditional roots and its passion for preserving centuries-old rituals.
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To learn more about Chandan Yatra and Jagannath culture, you can explore the Official Odisha Tourism website, which offers detailed information on festivals, traditions, and temple rituals:
