Bahuda Yatra Begins in Puri Amid Devotional Fervour and Massive Crowds

By A Staff Reporter

Puri, Odisha: The holy city of Puri witnessed a magnificent display of devotion and tradition as the Bahuda Yatra, or the return car festival of Lord Jagannath, commenced today with grandeur and spiritual fervour. The sacred procession marks the return of the deities to the Jagannath Temple after their annual sojourn to the Gundicha Temple.

The day began with the ceremonial Pahandi rituals, where Lord Balabhadra was the first to be brought to his majestic 14-wheeled chariot, Taladwaj. The chariot was then pulled by thousands of enthusiastic devotees, symbolizing unity, faith, and the deep spiritual connection the people share with the deity.

As per tradition, Gajapati Maharaja Divyasingha Deb, the ceremonial king of Puri, performed the sacred Chhera Pahanra — a ritual sweeping of the chariots with a golden broom, underscoring the humility of even the highest authority before the Lord.