Bhubaneswar, 22 July (H.S.): Preparations for the much-awaited Bahuda Yatra have gathered pace in Puri, with the three chariots of the Holy Trinity successfully completing the Dakshina Moda (southward turn) ritual near the Gundicha Temple. The ceremonial milestone marks the final phase before the return journey of the deities to the Jagannath Temple.

The divine sojourn of Mahaprbhu Jagannath, Mahaprbhu Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra at the Janmabedi is nearing its conclusion, with all pre-Bahuda rituals being conducted in strict adherence to age-old traditions.

The ritual sequence began on Tuesday when Devi Subhadra’s Darpadalana chariot completed the Dakshina Moda. On Wednesday, the chariots of Mahaprbhu Jagannath (Nandighosha) and Mahaprbhu Balabhadra (Taladhwaja) also performed the ceremonial turn, aligning themselves for the return procession.

Following the ritual, all three chariots have been stationed near the Nakachana Dwara, where they will await the arrival of the deities before the commencement of the Bahuda Yatra.

A large number of devotees thronged the Saradha Bali area to witness the auspicious occasion and seek blessings, reflecting the deep spiritual significance of the ritual. The Dakshina Moda is considered a key moment in the Rath Yatra, as it symbolically aligns the chariots towards the Singhadwara of the Srimandir for the return journey.

Anticipating a massive turnout, the district administration and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration have put in place comprehensive arrangements. These include heightened security deployment, traffic management, crowd control measures and enhanced logistical support to ensure a smooth and safe experience for pilgrims.

The Bahuda Yatra of the Holy Trinity is scheduled for July 24, with the chariot procession expected to take place between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. The return car festival, one of the most significant events of the annual Rath Yatra, is likely to attract lakhs of devotees to the pilgrim town.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda