Bahuda Yatra 2026: Mausi Maa’s Podapitha Sweetens Jagannath’s Return

As the nine‑day sojourn of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra at Gundicha Temple concludes, Puri prepares for the sacred Bahuda Yatra — the grand return of the deities to the Sri Mandir.

Along the Bada Danda, one of the most cherished traditions unfolds at Mausi Maa Temple, where the deities are offered the special Podapitha, a delicacy steeped in devotion.

Prepared under the guidance of priest Bishwanath Mishra, Podapitha is steamed for nearly eight hours in bamboo steamers, then gently fried in pure desi ghee.

Made with flour, fresh chhena, sugar, pistachios, almonds, cardamom, and cloves, it transforms into Mahaprasad once offered, later shared among devotees.

The aroma of ghee‑roasted Podapitha mingles with chants and anticipation, symbolising faith, flavour, and festivity.

This ritual remains one of the most endearing aspects of Jagannath culture, drawing thousands to witness the divine homecoming and partake in the prasadam.