Bahuda Yatra 2026: Chariot Pulling Begins at 4 PM in Puri
Puri, July 24: The sacred Bahuda Yatra of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra is unfolding today in Puri with lakhs of devotees thronging the Grand Road to witness the divine return journey from Gundicha Temple to the Jagannath Temple.
The day began with Mangala Alati at 4:00 am, followed by a series of rituals including Mailam, Tadapalagi, Rosha Homa, Abakasha, Surya Puja, and Sakala Dhupa.
The Sena Pata Lagi ritual was performed between 7:00 am and 11:30 am, while Mangal Arpana was offered at 11:45 am before the Pahandi procession.
The Pahandi of the deities commenced at noon, with the servitors adorning the Lords with Tahia offered by Raghav Das Math.
Chhera Pahanra, the ceremonial sweeping of the chariots, was scheduled between 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm.
Chariot pulling is set to begin at 4:00 pm, drawing massive participation from devotees.
During the return journey, the deities will halt at Mausi Maa Temple for the traditional Poda Pitha offering.
The Lakshmi‑Narayan Bheta ritual will also be performed near the royal palace before Nandighosha proceeds to Singhadwara.
Authorities have deployed extensive crowd management, traffic regulation, and security measures to ensure smooth conduct of the festival.
Witnessing Bahuda Yatra is believed to bestow blessings equivalent to performing an Ashwamedha Yajna, making it one of the most auspicious occasions in the Jagannath tradition.
