Today is Rathyatra. This year is especially important for Rathyatra as it is Nabakalebara year;the new form of Lord Jagannath, the year when Lord Jagannath is carved out of the sacred 'Daaru" wood. This auspicious event happens only when two Asadha months in the Hindu calendar fall in the same year(once in 12 to 19 years). In this process, the body changes but not the soul.The soul is transferred to another body.The sacred Daaru is found through divine guidance and then the process begins.The most important part is the transfer of 'Brahm' from the old idol to the new which is done very secretly.

When we were in Rourkela this day used to be quite exciting as we would wait for the rath or chariot to appear and we would all rush to view the Lord sitting in the chariot along with his other siblings-Balaram and Subhadra. The Lord travels to his aunt's house on his annual visit for 10 days and then returns.

The whole concept is very piquant and refreshing; perhaps He is the only God who goes on this annual journey.I miss the sight and every year when I see the calendar listing of the festival, it brings back so many childhood memories.