(Guptipara Rath Yatra)
The Guptipara Rath Yatra in West Bengal, held in the Hooghly district, is one of the oldest and most significant Rath Yatra festivals in the state, believed to have begun around 1730–1740. Centered around the deity Brindaban Chandra Jiu, the festival features a large wooden chariot built in the nabaratna style, with nine spires and sixteen wheels. The chariot is pulled over a distance of 1.5 km, from the Vrindaban Chandra Jiu Math to the Gundicha house in Gosaiganj Barabazar.
Photo Story: Ratha Yatra at ancient village of Bengal
Deeply rooted in Vaishnavite tradition, the event draws thousands of devotees from across Eastern India. A unique highlight is Bhandarloot, held before the return journey, during which bhog is cooked and freely distributed among attendees. The Guptipara Rath Yatra is considered second in importance only to the Puri Rath Yatra.
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