Dhamrai Jagannath Rathayatra

Dhamrai Jagannath Rath

Dhamrai Jagannath Rath is a chariot temple dedicated to the God Jagannath located in Dhamrai, Bangladesh. The deities are housed in an elaborate six storied wooden chariot and are taken out in a grand annual procession known as the Rathyatra. the Chariot is adorned by carvings and paintings of Hindu deities. The Rathyatra is the oldest and most famous in Bangladesh attracting thousands of devotees from all over the country. It was started by Raja Josho Pal who found a Vishnu Statue in the forest. The name of the statue was after the name of the Raja JOSHOMADHOB. The Annual Rathayatra was famous because of the 80-foot-tall  chariot built by the Zamindars of the region during the 19th century. This Chariot was burnt by the Pakistani Army during the 1971 war and has since been replaced by 27 foot tall Chariot. Few Years back Indian Govt. helped to reconstruct the chariot. Every year in Ashaŗh Month (according to bangla calender) in the shukla ditiya thithi the Rathayatra takes place. This year(2011) it is in the 3rd July. The religious ceremony will end on the 11th July,2011. This 9 days the rituals continue. But the local festival will continue for one month. Traditional Home Made showpieces are available in this fair. Circus party will also come.