Quite similar to the Ratha Jatra festival, the return journey 'Bahuda Jatra' of the Holy Trinity from Gundicha temple to Srimandir in Puri also began almost two hours ahead of the schedule. After the nine-day annual sojourn at the Gundicha ended today, Bada Thakura Balabhadra, Mahaprabhu Jagannath and Devi Subhadra returned to Ratna Bedi on their majestic chariots. On way, the sibling deities were fed with their favourite offering of Poda Pitha.
A view of the three gigantic chariots of Holy Trinity as they stand tall outside Gundicha facing Srimandir ahead of their return journey - Bahuda Jatra.
Lord Sudarshan being carried by the servitors to Debadalana chariot in Dhadi Pahandi.
Elder brother Lord Balabhadra steps out of Gundicha temple in ceremonial Pahandi. He is being escorted to his Taladhwaja Ratha.
Devi Subhadra is being carried by the sevayats in Dhadi Pahandi procession to the Debadalana Ratha.
And finally, the Lord of the Universe steps out of Gundicha temple. Swaying and swinging, Mahaprabhu Jagannath makes His way onto Nandighosha in ceremonial Pahandi.
King in service of his Lord. Puri Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb arrives in his royal palanquin, performs Chhera Panhara (ceremonial sweeping of the chariots with a golden broom) on three chariots as per traditions.
The return journey begins. Lord Balabhadra's chariot- 'Taladhwaja' rolls on Badadanda towards Srimandir.
Debadalana - the chariot of Devi Subhadra starts rolling towards Srimandir next.
Lord Jagannath begins return journey to his abode on Nandighosha.
Servitors offer traditional 'Poda Pitha' bhog to the Lords at the Mausi Maa Temple during their return journey to Srimandir.
Laxminarayan Bheta performed in front of Shree Nahara near Nandighosha chariot in presence of Gajapati Maharaja and sevayats. On this occasion, Goddess Laxmi welcomes Lord Jagannath upon his return to Srimandir.
Ratha Jatra culminates after the arrival of sibling deities back to Ratna Bedi. The three gigantic chariots are parked outside Srimandir at the Singhadwara.
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