Spirituality is at its peak on Bada Danda (Grand Road) in Puri as the sibling deities were ushered out of their abode in Pahandi Bije on Rath Yatra today. In the three colourful and gigantic chariots, the Trinity embarks on a nine day sojourn to their aunt's place - Gundicha temple.
By: Devbrat Patnaik
Last updated: 05 Jul 2022, 12:15 PM IST
Bada Danda reverberates in the beatings of gongs, cymbals and chants of Jai Jagannath.
The atmosphere is filled with devotion and joy as Devi Subhadra is being carried by the servitors in Dhadi Pahandi to the Debadalana chariot.
Adorning the floral crown or Tahia, Lord Balabhadra is moving to Taladhwaja chariot in grand procession amid the rhythms of traditional instruments.
Lo & behold! Lord of the Universe steps out of Srimandir.
Pilgrim town dips in devotion.
Devotees dressed in the attire of Lord Hanuman express their love for Holy siblings.
Swinging and swaying in the arms of servitors, Mahaprabhu Jagannath makes his way onto his chariot Nandighosa.
The 'Chita Lagi' ritual of the deities is completed on the chariots.
Rope of faith! The sacred link between the devotees and the Trinity.
After Pahandi rituals, Puri Shankaracharya paid obeisance to the sibling deities on their chariots.
Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb comes seated on his royal palanquin from the Raja Nahara (royal palace) to perform his duty as the first servitor of Lord Jagannath.
King at Lord's service! Servitors sprinkle fragrant water and flowers as Puri Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb sweeps chariot platforms with a golden broom as part of Chhera Pahanra rituals.
Puri Badadanda comes alive again teeming with devotees.
Lord Balabhadra's 'Taladhwaja' Rath rolls on Badadanda as pulling of chariot begins amid loud chants of Hari Bola and conchs and gongs reverberating in the air.
Following her eldest brother, Devi Subhadra now begins her journey to aunt's place – Gundicha temple in her chariot 'Darpadalana'.
The most awaited moment of the Rath Yatra has finally arrived. The Juggernaut rolls. The world watches in awe as 'Nandighosa' chariot carrying the Supreme Lord - Mahaprabhu Jagannath sets out towards Gundicha temple.
Floating in a sea of devotees, Holy siblings reach Gundicha temple on their magnificent chariots.