Cuttack: Ropes used to pull the chariots during the annual Rath Yatra of Puri Jagannath Temple have emerged as the star attraction at this year’s Bali Yatra, with devotees flocking to acquire pieces of the sacred .
The ceremonial ropes, called ‘rosh’ or ‘sarathi’, play a crucial role in pulling the massive chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra during the Rath Yatra. Odisha State Museum has made these sacred artefacts available at a special stall in the South East Asian Countries’ pavilion at the lower Bali Yatra ground.
“We’ve brought three 60-feet-long ropes, one from each deity’s chariot,” says Bhagyalipi Malla, superintendent of the state museum and In-charge of the pavilion. “The response has been overwhelming — nearly 80% of the stock was claimed within 48 hours, prompting us to order additional supplies from the stockyard.”
Devotees believe the ropes carry divine energy and serve as powerful symbols of protection and prosperity. Many incorporate the fragments of the ropes in their home shrines or display them as keepsakes.
“Having even a small piece of the rope at home makes me feel connected to Lord Jagannath,” said Pradip Das, a devotee who secured a fragment. Another visitor, Manoranjan Rath, added, “These ropes represent Lord Jagannath’s grace. Taking home a piece is like bringing his blessings into our lives.”
For some, like Dipti Rekha Swain from Jajpur, acquiring the rope fulfils a deep spiritual connection. “Pulling Lord Jagannath’s chariot remains an unfulfilled childhood dream, but having a piece of the sacred rope brings me immense joy,” she said.
The demand for the ropes at Bali Yatra not only demonstrates the unwavering faith of Jagannath devotees but also highlights the enduring significance of the centuries-old Rath Yatra tradition in Odisha’s cultural and spiritual landscape.