The temple of Jagannath, a form of Vishnu, dominates the seaside town of Puri in Odisha. It dates from the twelfth century, when its construction was begun under King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, and it is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites.
The Rath Yatra
Each year, usually in June or July, the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are carried out of the temple and drawn through the town on enormous wooden chariots. It is one of the largest religious gatherings in India.
