PURI, ODISHA: Lakhs of devotees gathered in Puri on Friday, July 24, to witness the sacred Bahuda Jatra, the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra from the Gundicha Temple to the Jagannath Temple. Bahuda Jatra marks the concluding phase of the world-famous Rath Yatra festival and is one of the most significant religious events in Odisha. The deities began their journey from the Gundicha Temple in their grand wooden chariots, which were pulled by thousands of devotees along the historic Grand Road (Bada Danda). During the return procession, the chariots made a traditional stop at the Mausi Maa Temple, where Lord Jagannath was offered the famous Poda Pitha, a traditional Odia delicacy believed to be the Lord’s favourite. To ensure the smooth conduct of the festival, the Odisha Government deployed extensive security arrangements, including thousands of police personnel, surveillance systems, medical teams and emergency response units. Authorities expected nearly 10 lakh devotees to participate in this year’s Bahuda Jatra, making it one of the largest religious gatherings in the country. Following the Bahuda Jatra, the annual Rath Yatra celebrations will continue with the Suna Besha (Golden Attire) on July 25, Adharapana on July 26, and conclude with Niladri Bije on July 27, when the deities ceremonially re-enter the Jagannath Temple.
