JAMMU: The annual Yatra of Lord Jagannath commemorating his visit to Gundicha Temple via Mausi Maa Temple (aunt’s home) near Balagandi Chaka, Puri was taken out with religious fervour amidst chanting of hymns and beating of drums here on Wednesday.
This annual festival is celebrated on Ashadha Shukla Paksha Dwitiya (second day in bright fortnight of Ashadha month) which marks the journey of Lordship accompanied by his brother Balabhadra and sister Subhadra symbolising of going to his aunt’s home and stay there for nine days.
The Rath Yatra started from MA Stadium and moved through various parts of the city. Thousands of devotees including men, women and children participated in the Yatra and chanted names of the Lord Jagannath. The Rath Yatra started with welcome of Lordships Shree Shree Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra Devi placed on the chariot decorated with flowers. The Yatra was organized by Shree Jagannath Rath Yatra Sanstha, Jammu.
The devotees, enroute danced and recited Bhajans in praise of Lord Jagannath. Sweets, water and fruits were also served to the devotees who had participated in Yatra. Enthusiasm and excitement ran high among the devotees as the deities remained indoors since Snana Purnima on 20th June.
“We are well prepared to face any situation. Steps have also been taken to avoid any stampede-like situation,” said a police official. Devotees poured into the City of Temples to watch the grand ceremony and pull the three majestic and colourful chariots.