Discover the Spiritual Significance of Bahuda Yatra in Puri's Grand Festival

The Divine Return of Deities in Puri

Puri: The holy city of Puri celebrated the return of the deities during the Bahuda Yatra, marking the end of the grand annual Rath Yatra festival.

As the grand procession reached its conclusion, the chariot of Lord Balabhadra, known as Taladhwaja, arrived at the Srimandir, followed closely by Devi Subhadra’s Darpadalana. Finally, Lord Jagannath’s chariot, Nandighosa, made its way after a traditional stop at the Mausi Maa Temple.

Madhab Chandra Puja Panda, Secretary of the Puja Panda Nijog, highlighted the deep spiritual and cultural importance of the Bahuda Yatra, stating that this return journey transcends mere ritual.

He explained, “The Rath Yatra signifies Lord Jagannath’s journey from His temple in Srimandir to His maternal aunt’s home at Gundicha Temple. This is a divine family visit, and the Bahuda Yatra symbolizes His return, filled with rituals that echo our long-standing faith.”

Panda elaborated on the customs observed during the journey, noting, “The Lord pauses at the Mausi Maa Temple, representing a visit to His mother’s sister. Here, He is offered Poda Pitha, a traditional dish, before continuing to the main temple. This practice is more than a ritual; it celebrates divine kinship.”

The concluding phase of the Rath Yatra involves elaborate offerings and decorations before the Lord re-enters His sanctum. “Before entering the temple, Lord Jagannath is dressed in golden attire, known as Suna Besha, and grants darshan to the devotees. The spiritual magnificence of this ritual leaves every devotee in awe,” Panda shared.

He also discussed the Niladri Bije, the festival's final ritual: “On this day, Goddess Lakshmi symbolically shows her displeasure over Lord Jagannath’s prolonged absence. She shuts the temple doors on Him. To appease her, the Lord offers Rasagola, symbolizing divine love and reconciliation.”

The last ritual features a sacred exchange of Sanskrit chants between the priests of Lord Jagannath and Goddess Lakshmi before the Lord is ceremoniously welcomed back into the Srimandir.

Panda concluded, “These ancient traditions are not merely rituals; they reflect Odisha’s rich spiritual heritage, illustrating the Lord’s journey through love, devotion, and familial bonds.”

The city of Puri remains alive with devotional energy as devotees eagerly anticipate the grand Suna Besha darshan, symbolizing Lord Jagannath’s return to His eternal home.