Puri, July 4: As the holy city of Puri in Odisha prepares for the sacred Bahuda Yatra on July 5, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has finalized the detailed ritual schedule for the return journey of the deities from Gundicha Temple to the Srimandir. The Bahuda Yatra marks the culmination of the nine-day Rath Yatra festival, drawing lakhs of devotees to Puri.

According to the SJTA, the ceremonial sweeping of the chariots, known as Chhera Pahanra, will take place between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM. This will be followed by the installation of Charamala Fita (sacred ropes) and horses between 3:00 PM and 4:00 PM, after which the grand chariot pulling will commence at 4:00 PM.

Today, the auspicious Sandhya Darshan was held at Gundicha Temple, giving devotees a final glimpse of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra at their birthplace before the return journey. The temple administration announced that public darshan would be closed after 6:00 PM to facilitate ritual preparations.

Thousands of devotees thronged the temple premises throughout the day, emotionally moved by the final Adapa Mandap darshan. Security has been heightened following the recent stampede incident, with top officials including DGP YB Khurania overseeing arrangements.

For the countless devotees, the Bahuda Yatra is not merely a festival-- it is a sacred journey of reunion and cosmic harmony. The return of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra to the Shree Mandir is revered as a restoration of divine balance, where the deities resume their celestial duties and Lord Jagannath reunites with Goddess Lakshmi, his eternal consort.

The act of pulling the majestic chariots during this return procession is steeped in spiritual significance. It is believed to cleanse one's soul, invite good fortune, and foster a profound sense of devotion. The Bahuda Yatra transforms into a living tapestry of faith, unity, and hope—an emotional celebration that binds millions in shared reverence.

Read More Odisha News