Puri and its surrouding places is known for vibrant fairs and festivals round the year. The grandest of which is the Ratha Yatra held in June/July. Infact the Ratha Yatra is essentially the grand culmination of several festivals held earlier in the year. Let’s take a look at what this coastal city has to offer.
Abhisheka( Dec/Jan): Abhisheka is the beginning of a series of festivals related to Lord Jagannath of Puri. Abhisheka or Avhisheka is the coronation ceremony of the Lord. It is held on a full moon day in December/January corresponding to the Oriya month of `Pausha`. That is why it is called as Pushyavisheka, denoting coronation in Pausha month.
Dolayatra( March): Dolayatra, known in north India as Holi is observed from the 10th day of the bright fortnight of Falguna (March-April) till Purnima( day of full moon). Dolagobinda or Madan Mohan is enshrined on a swing and abir (coloured powderapplied on his holy feet.
Chandanyatra( April-May):Chandan Yatra a 21 day festival commences on the auspicious Akshaya Tritiya, the 3rd day of the bright fortnight of Baisaksh. It corresponds to the English calendar of April -May. During this festival, idols of various gods are taken out in a procession to Narendra Tank. The idols are then placed in a boat amidst chanting and music and taken on a cruise.
Snana Yatra( May–June): Snana Yatra counts among the popular religious festivals of Puri. It