Bahuda Yatra 2025: Lord Jagannath’s Return Journey to Puri Temple Set for July 5

Puri, Odisha | July 5, 2025 — One of the most significant and spiritually uplifting events in the Jagannath culture, Bahuda Yatra marks the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from the Gundicha Temple to the main Jagannath Temple in Puri. In 2025, Bahuda Yatra is scheduled to be celebrated with grandeur and devotion on Saturday, July 5.

The event, which comes on the seventh day of the Rath Yatra festival, draws lakhs of devotees from across India and abroad, who gather in Puri to witness the divine homecoming.

What is Bahuda Yatra?

Bahuda” translates to “return” in Odia. After residing for nine days at the Gundicha Temple—believed to be their aunt’s abode—the three deities begin their sacred journey back to the Jagannath Temple, completing a vital phase of the Rath Yatra.

Morning Rituals: Pahandi Bije

Festivities begin early in the morning with Pahandi Bije, a ceremonial procession where the deities are carried from the Gundicha Temple and placed on their grand chariots amid the chanting of hymns, beats of traditional drums, and cries of devotion.

The Journey Back

Once the deities are seated on their elaborately decorated wooden chariots, devotees pull the chariots through the Bada Danda (Grand Road), echoing chants of “Jai Jagannath!” in an atmosphere of celebration and faith.

Stop at Mausi Maa Temple

During Bahuda Yatra, the chariots halt at the Mausi Maa Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ardhasini. Here, a special offering known as Poda Pitha, a traditional rice and jaggery pancake, is made to the Lord. This pit stop symbolizes the deep familial bonds in Jagannath culture.

Why Bahuda Yatra is Special

Bahuda Yatra signifies the return of the divine siblings to their eternal home, representing themes of family reunion, love, and spiritual renewal. It also holds symbolic meaning—emphasizing the return of order and balance to the spiritual universe.

What Follows Bahuda Yatra?

  • Suna Besha (July 6, 2025): The day after Bahuda Yatra, the deities are adorned with golden ornaments, a sight that attracts enormous crowds.

  • Niladri Bije: This marks the final ritual of the Rath Yatra, when the deities enter the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath Temple, bringing the grand festival to a spiritually fulfilling conclusion.

A Festival of Faith, Family, and Devotion

The Bahuda Yatra of 2025 not only continues centuries-old traditions but also strengthens the spiritual and cultural bonds of millions of devotees. For those unable to attend in person, the yatra will be broadcast live on multiple platforms, bringing the divine spectacle into homes around the world.

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