Thousands of devotees gathered in Puri on Friday as the sacred Bahuda Yatra, the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Sudarshan, began with the traditional Pahandi ritual.
The deities were brought in a ceremonial procession from the Gundicha Temple to their chariots, marking the start of their journey back to the Shri Jagannath Temple after a nine-day stay. Earlier, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb performed the Chhera Pahanra, the age-old ritual of sweeping the chariots with a golden broom, symbolising humility and devotion.
BJP MP Sambit Patra, who participated in the celebrations, said it was a matter of great fortune to be part of the Bahuda Yatra. He highlighted the unique tradition of Lord Jagannath coming out among devotees and accepting their prayers.
Odisha Minister Suryabanshi Suraj prayed for the well-being of devotees and people across the world on the auspicious occasion. Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said the administration aimed for the chariots to begin their journey in the afternoon and reach Singhadwar near the temple by night.
Bahuda Yatra begins in Puri with Pahandi ritual; Gajapati Maharaja performs Chhera Pahanra ahead of the return procession.
When the Lord returns, faith walks with Him.
