Puri, July 5: The sacred coastal town of Puri came alive with chants of “Jai Jagannath” and rhythmic beats of cymbals as the Bahuda Yatra 2025, the return journey of Lord Jagannath and His siblings, commenced on Saturday.

Lakhs of devotees gathered to witness the majestic chariot-pulling ritual, marking the deities’ return from Gundicha Temple to the Shree Jagannath Temple.

The day began with the Pahandi Bije procession, where the deities—Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath—were ceremoniously escorted to their respective chariots: Taladhwaja, Darpadalana, and Nandighosha. The ritual started ahead of schedule at 10 a.m., with Chakraraj Sudarshan leading the procession.

A highlight of the day was the Chhera Pahanra ritual, performed by Gajapati Maharaja Divyasingha Deb, who swept the chariot platforms with a golden broom, symbolizing humility and devotion. Following this, the pulling of Lord Balabhadra’s Taladhwaja chariot began at 2:45 p.m., earlier than the scheduled 4 p.m. start.

The return journey spans approximately 2.6 km along the Grand Road, culminating at the 12th-century Jagannath Temple. The atmosphere was electric, with devotees chanting, dancing, and offering prayers as the chariots rolled forward.

In light of the recent stampede incident near Gundicha Temple, security was heightened. Over 10,000 personnel, including Odisha Police and CAPFs, were deployed, supported by AI-enabled CCTV cameras and drones to ensure a safe and smooth celebration.

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Leader of Opposition in State Assembly Naveen Patnaik extended greetings to the public, wishing peace and prosperity on this auspicious occasion.

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