Every year in the coastal town of Puri in Odisha, the streets burst into life during the grand Rath Yatra. While the majestic sight of the three massive chariots carrying Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra is familiar to many, there’s something equally powerful that often goes unnoticed, the songs. These are not just melodies or chants, but living threads of Odisha’s folk heritage, carried forward by the voices of generations.
Music on the Move: Songs that Walk with the Chariots
Rath Yatra is more than a procession. It is a journey of the heart and spirit for millions of people. From the moment the deities leave the Jagannath Temple for their annual trip to the Gundicha Temple, the air fills with the sound of kirtans, bhajans, and traditional Odia folk songs. These songs are not sung by professionals or celebrities. They come from common people, from temple priests to kirtan mandalis to villagers who travel miles just to be part of the event.
Each song expresses something deep — stories of the gods, expressions of devotion, and the emotional connection devotees feel with Lord Jagannath. With the beats of mridangas (drums), kartalas (cymbals), and heartfelt singing, these songs create an atmosphere that feels both ancient and alive.
Singing in the Language of Devotion
Most of the songs during Rath Yatra are in Odia, the language spoken in Odisha. Their words are simple, yet deeply meaningful. They talk about the beauty of Lord Jagannath, the happiness of seeing him come out of the temple, or the sadness of waiting for his return.
A few examples include:
"Ahe Nila Saila", a powerful poem by Salabega, a Muslim devotee of Lord Jagannath. It is sung with deep emotion and is beloved across Odisha.
"Jagannatha Swami Nayana Patha Gami Bhavatu Me", a Sanskrit verse that many people sing while pulling the chariots or watching the procession.
“Dina Dayala He Jagannatha” - This bhajan appeals to Lord Jagannath’s kindness. Devotees sing it while asking for protection, blessings, and mercy. It's especially popular among those who come from far-off places to attend Rath Yatra, hoping for a glimpse of the Lord and relief from their hardships.
In rural areas, especially in the days leading up to Rath Yatra, women gather in their courtyards and sing jananas, which are devotional songs describing the preparations and journey of the deities. Each region has its own style, giving the celebration a rich and diverse musical identity.
Preserving an Oral Tradition
These songs were not written down in old manuscripts or recorded in studios. They lived in memory, passed from grandparents to grandchildren, from teacher to student, from one devotee to another. But today, that oral tradition faces new challenges.
Many young people are drawn to modern music and global entertainment. Folk songs, especially those sung during Rath Yatra, risk being forgotten. Even in Puri, loudspeakers often play recorded songs instead of live kirtans. The natural voices of the community sometimes get drowned out in the noise.
A Celebration that Includes Everyone
The songs of Rath Yatra do not belong to one group or religion. Just like Lord Jagannath, who is often called the God of the people, the music is open to all. Salabega, who was born a Muslim, is still one of the most celebrated devotees of Lord Jagannath, and his songs are sung by Hindus with love and respect. Folk rhythms from tribal regions of Odisha also find their way into the celebration, creating a musical blend that is truly inclusive.
Rath Yatra is not just about watching chariots move down the road. It is about feeling something deep inside. The songs that echo through Puri during these days are full of faith, love, and history. They connect people to each other and to something larger than themselves.
As we witness another Rath Yatra, let us also take a moment to listen. To the songs. To the voices of the people. To the sound of devotion that has travelled through time, and still fills the streets of Puri with meaning and joy.
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