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Also known as brand vouchers, gift vouchers and brand cards, gift cards are a digital mode of payment which carries a amount along with a pin / card no. You can buy these gift cards and use them to pay on 300+ brand online and offline as well.
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Rath Yatra

Celebrate West Bengal's Chariot festival for Lord Jagannath with traditional and modern gifts, festive foods, and a vibrant cultural journey.

Rath Yatra

Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is a significant cultural and religious event celebrated with great enthusiasm in West Bengal, particularly in the town of Mahesh in Hooghly district. This festival, which dates back to the 14th century, honours Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra.

The festival involves the grand procession of intricately decorated chariots carrying the idols of these deities. Devotees from across the region gather to pull the chariots, believing it to be a highly auspicious act. The main event takes place on the second day of the bright fortnight of the month of Ashadha (June-July).

The Rath Yatra of Mahesh is renowned for being the oldest and most magnificent in West Bengal, attracting large crowds and vibrant celebrations. The deities are taken from the Jagannath temple to their aunt's house (Gundicha Temple), where they stay for a week before returning, marking the end of the festival with Bahuda Yatra.

The festival not only highlights religious devotion but also showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region through various traditional performances, fairs, and community feasts. Rath Yatra is a time of joy, unity, and spiritual renewal, making it a must-experience event for cultural enthusiasts.

Rath Yatra

  • Fruits: Fresh fruits are often gifted as they symbolise health and prosperity.
  • Sweets: Traditional Bengali sweets like rasgulla, sandesh, and ladoo are popular gifts, embodying sweetness and festivity.
  • Small Toys: Colourful toys are commonly given to children during Rath Yatra, adding to the joyous atmosphere.
  • Modern Gifts: In addition to traditional gifts, people also exchange modern items such as books, gadgets, and decorative items.

Rath Yatra

  • Khir: A creamy rice pudding made with milk, rice, and sugar, often flavoured with cardamom and garnished with nuts.
  • Pitha: Traditional rice cakes that come in various forms and flavours, often stuffed with sweet fillings like coconut and jaggery.
  • Bhog: A special offering to Lord Jagannath, which includes rice, dal, vegetables, and sweets, later distributed as prasad to devotees.
  • Muri: Puffed rice mixed with spices, peanuts, and mustard oil, enjoyed as a savoury snack during the festival.
Travelling to West Bengal for Rath Yatra?
  • Cultural Highlights: The main attraction of Rath Yatra is the grand procession of Lord Jagannath's chariot, pulled by thousands of devotees. The streets come alive with music, dance, and joyous celebrations as the chariot makes its way through the city.
  • Travel Tips: Book accommodations well in advance to avoid last-minute hassles. Pack light cotton clothing to stay comfortable in the warm weather, and use local transport like taxis and auto-rickshaws for easy navigation.
  • Local Experiences: Engage in local activities such as participating in the chariot pulling, visiting local markets for festive shopping, and enjoying traditional Bengali cuisine at local eateries.
  • Must-Visit Places: During Rath Yatra, visit key sites such as the Jagannath Temple in Kolkata, the Digha Beach for a serene retreat, and the Victoria Memorial to soak in the local culture.
  • Safety and Etiquette: Dress modestly and respect local customs. Stay hydrated, be mindful of the crowd, and follow any guidelines provided by local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.