Puri: The sacred city of Puri witnessed a momentous Return of Chariots in the ongoing annual Rath Jatra festival today.
As the Bahuda Jatra, the return car festival of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, culminated with the majestic chariots reaching the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) of the Shree Jagannath Temple by 9:30 PM. This auspicious event marked the divine siblings’ homecoming after their nine-day sojourn at the Shree Gundicha Temple, their revered birthplace.
Bahuda Jatra, meaning “return chariot festival,” holds profound spiritual significance for millions of devotees worldwide. It symbolizes the deities’ return to their eternal abode, the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple. This return journey is not merely a physical movement but a spiritual reaffirmation of divine balance and the reunion of the deities with their consort, Goddess Lakshmi, and their cosmic duties. For countless devotees, participating in the pulling of these colossal chariots is considered an act of immense spiritual merit, believed to cleanse sins and grant salvation.
The three principal deities of Puri – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra – embarked on this homeward journey atop their grand chariots:
Nandighosha: The chariot of Lord Jagannath, adorned with vibrant colors and intricate carvings.
Taladhwaja: The chariot of Lord Balabhadra, the elder brother, equally magnificent in its design.
Darpadalan: The chariot of Devi Subhadra, the sister, radiating grace and divinity.
The day of Bahuda Jatra is steeped in ancient rituals and devotional fervor. The ceremonial “Pahandi” ritual, where the idols are carried in a rhythmic procession from the Shree Gundicha Temple to their respective chariots, commenced earlier in the day.
This was followed by the “Chhera Pahanra” ritual, performed by the titular King of Puri, Gajapati Maharaja Divyasingha Deb, who ceremonially sweeps the chariot platforms with a golden broom, symbolizing humility and equality before the Lord.
As the chariots began their slow and majestic roll along the Bada Danda (Grand Road), the atmosphere was charged with devotion. Lakhs of devotees, amidst the rhythmic beating of gongs, blowing of conches, and fervent chants of “Jai Jagannath” and “Haribol,” pulled the chariots, their faces reflecting unwavering faith and joy. The journey also included a traditional halt at the Mausimaa Temple (Aunt’s abode), where the deities partook of “Poda Pitha,” a special rice and jaggery cake, a cherished delicacy.
The arrival of the chariots at the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) by 9:30 PM marked a triumphant and emotional moment. The Lion’s Gate is the main entrance to the Shree Jagannath Temple and holds immense symbolic importance.
While Lord Balabhadra’s and Devi Subhadra’s chariots are typically parked directly at the Singhadwara, Lord Jagannath’s chariot, Nandighosha, traditionally halts in front of the Gajapati Maharaja’s palace for the “Lakshmi Narayana Bheta” – a symbolic reunion between Lord Jagannath and Goddess Lakshmi, who expresses her loving displeasure at being left behind during the Rath Yatra. This divine drama, enacted by servitors, adds a unique and endearing human touch to the celestial proceedings.
Despite the massive crowds, the event unfolded with remarkable spiritual harmony. Security arrangements were stringent, with thousands of police personnel, AI-enabled CCTV cameras, and drones ensuring the safety and smooth flow of the devotees. The air was thick with the scent of incense, the sound of devotional music, and the collective prayers of a multitude united by their faith.
The Bahuda Jatra is more than just a festival; it is a vibrant testament to the enduring traditions, cultural richness, and unwavering faith that define the spiritual landscape of Odisha.
As the deities prepare for the “Suna Besha” (golden attire) ritual tomorrow, followed by their re-entry into the sanctum sanctorum, the city of Puri continues to bask in the divine aura of this grand homecoming.