The Bahuda Yatra, marking the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra from Gundicha Temple (Janmabedi) to the Jagannath Temple (Ratnabedi), is set to take place on Saturday, July 5, 2025, in Puri, Odisha.
This vibrant festival, a key event of the Rath Yatra, draws millions of devotees to witness the deities’ procession on their majestic chariots along the Bada Danda (Grand Road).
The rituals will commence early with the Mangala Alati at 4:00 AM, followed by Gopal Ballav and Sakala Dhupa from 5:45 AM to 6:45 AM. The Senapata Lagi ritual will occur between 7:00 AM and 11:30 AM, with Mangalarpan at 11:45 AM.
The Bahuda Pahandi, where the deities are ceremonially brought to their chariots, is scheduled from 12:00 PM to 2:30 PM. The Chera Pahanra ritual will take place between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM, followed by the tying of Chara Mala and Ghoda Lagi from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM. The grand chariot pulling, or Rath Tana, will begin at 4:00 PM, captivating devotees as the chariots roll back to the Jagannath Temple.
The Puri district administration has made elaborate arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe experience. Over 200 platoons of police, including senior officers, will manage crowd control, traffic, and security. A green corridor on Bada Danda will facilitate ambulance movement for emergencies, ensuring swift medical attention.
Police DG Yogesh Bahadur Khurania emphasised the disciplined darshan process, stating, “With extensive police deployment and public cooperation, we aim to ensure devotees have a seamless experience.”
Puri SP Pinak Mishra added that all rituals are on schedule, with special arrangements for chariot pulling and crowd management.
District Collector Chanchal Rana highlighted the administration’s focus on maintaining order, particularly around the chariots and at the temple’s Simhadwar, where only essential personnel will be allowed within the inner cordon. The influx of devotees is expected to peak for the Bahuda Yatra, adding to the spiritual fervour of the event.
As the deities return to their divine abode, devotees bid farewell to this year’s Rath Yatra, eagerly awaiting next year’s celebration. The Bahuda Yatra remains a testament to Odisha’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, uniting millions in devotion to Lord Jagannath.
