The Antiquities of Orissa v2.c17.s1.303

v2.c17.s1.303

10. *Ratha Yātrā* or the Car Festival. After the re-painting and varnishing it is but natural that the first opportunity should be taken to exhibit the images publicly for the gratification of the faithful and this is done on the second day of the waxing moon in the month of Āṣāḍha (June-July) by placing the images in open cars and taking them out for an airing in a grand procession along the main street on the town. Three cars are provided for the purpose. The first. of these intended for Jagannātha, according to the *Puruṣottama Māhātmya*, should be 32 cubits high, provided with sixteen iron wheels, each having 16 spokes, four pavilions at the four corners, a central throne having four openings, decorated with numerous wooden images and rich clothing and surmounted by an image of Garuḍa. This is called Cakradhvaja or Nandighoṣa. The second, for Subhadrā, should have twelve wheels, each of 12 spokes, and the lotus for its crest. It is called Padmadhvaja. The third, for Balabhadra, should have fourteen wheels of 14 spokes each and having the monkey god (Hanumāna) for its crest. It is named Thaladhvaja. These directions are now fairly observed, excepting the iron wheels, for which they have wooden wheels. The proportions at present followed are: height for the 1st 45, for the 2nd 43 and for the 3rd 44 feet. The diameter of the wheels for the 1st 7 ft., for the 2nd 6 ft. and for the 3rd 6 ft. 6 in. The size of the platform is for the 1st 35, for the 2nd 33 and for the 3rd 34 feet square. The housings are of broadcloth of different colours set off with spangles and the awnings and hangings of rich brocaded silk. Altogether the vehicles have a very imposing appearance.