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Lord Balabhadra, also known as Balarama, is the elder brother of Lord Krishna. Known for his immense strength and dedication to dharma, he plays a significant role in Hindu mythology.
The Rath Yatra is an annual festival celebrated with great fervor in Puri, Odisha. It involves the procession of the chariots (rathas) of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra.
The chariot of Lord Balabhadra, called the Taladhwaja, is meticulously crafted each year by skilled artisans. It stands tall with 14 wheels, each symbolizing a different aspect of the universe.
The chariot is adorned with bright fabrics, flowers, and intricate designs. The canopy of the chariot is a mix of red and blue, representing strength and serenity.
– Height: 44 Feet – Wheels: 14 – Color: Green and Red – Wood: Made of 763 pieces of wood – Horses: Tibra, Ghora, Dighashrama, Swamanava (Black) – Rope Name: Basuki – Flag Name: Unnani
Along with Lord Balabhadra, the chariot also has idols of Ganesha, Kartikeya, Sarvamangala, Pralambari, Halayudha, Mrutyunjaya, Natamvara, Mukteshwar, and Sheshadeva. The face of the chariot is known as Ketu Bhadra, and the weapons are Hala (plough) and Musala (mace).
Lord Balabhadra's chariot symbolizes strength, purity, and the cosmic order. Participating in the Rath Yatra is believed to cleanse sins and bring blessings from the divine.