When the chariots of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra begin their majestic return from Gundicha Temple to Srimandira in Puri, Odisha — the spiritual heart of millions beats in unison. This divine homecoming is called Bahuda Yatra, and in 2025, it will again bring together faith, tradition, and celebration in an unmatched spiritual spectacle.
What is Bahuda Yatra?
Bahuda Yatra, literally meaning ‘Return Journey’, marks the second phase of the world-famous Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath.
After staying for 7 days at the Gundicha Temple during the Rath Yatra, the deities begin their journey back to their original abode – the Jagannath Temple (Srimandira) on the Bada Danda (Grand Road).
This vibrant procession represents not just a religious ritual but an emotionally rich celebration that beautifully portrays divine love, forgiveness, and togetherness.
After staying for 7 days at the Gundicha Temple during the Rath Yatra, the deities begin their journey back to their original abode – the Jagannath Temple (Srimandira) on the Bada Danda (Grand Road).
This vibrant procession represents not just a religious ritual but an emotionally rich celebration that beautifully portrays divine love, forgiveness, and togetherness.
When does Bahuda Yatra 2025 take place?
In 2025, Bahuda Yatra will be celebrated in Asadha month, just a day before the Bada Ekadashi.
Meanwhile, the exact date will be declared based on the lunar calendar by the temple authorities closer to the time.
Typically, it usually falls eight days after Rath Yatra.
✅ Pro Tip: Therefore, follow official updates from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) or Puri District portals for the confirmed 2025 date.
Meanwhile, the exact date will be declared based on the lunar calendar by the temple authorities closer to the time.
Typically, it usually falls eight days after Rath Yatra.
✅ Pro Tip: Therefore, follow official updates from the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) or Puri District portals for the confirmed 2025 date.
The Rituals of Bahuda Yatra
— A Divine Symphony of Rituals, Emotions, and Symbolism
Morning Rituals: The Day Begins in Divinity
On Bahuda morning, after performing rituals like Mangala Alati and Abakash,
then, secret services (Nitikanti) are done by temple servitors.
After that, rituals like Chherapahura Niti (sweeping the chariots with golden broom) are conducted before the yatra begins.
then, secret services (Nitikanti) are done by temple servitors.
After that, rituals like Chherapahura Niti (sweeping the chariots with golden broom) are conducted before the yatra begins.
Stop at Mausima Temple: The Aunt’s Affection
A unique feature of Bahuda is the brief halt at Mausima Temple (Aunt’s abode),
where Lord Jagannath is offered Poda Pitha, a traditional rice cake.
Thus, this symbolizes divine familial affection – even gods relish the love of their relatives!
where Lord Jagannath is offered Poda Pitha, a traditional rice cake.
Thus, this symbolizes divine familial affection – even gods relish the love of their relatives!
Suna Vesha (Golden Attire): The Royal Radiance
On the next day (Bada Ekadashi), then, Temple servitors adorn the deities in gold ornaments from head to toe during the Suna Vesha ritual.
As a result, devotees gather in lakhs to witness this divine royalty.
Niladri Bije: The Final Return to the Sanctum
On Dwadasi Tithi, the deities are ceremonially brought back inside the temple in Pahandi style, completing the spiritual circuit of Rath Yatra.
Do You Know?
Interestingly, Maa Lakshmi doesn’t let Lord Jagannath enter the temple easily!
According to belief, since the Lord leaves without her during Rath Yatra, Goddess Lakshmi blocks the entrance (Singhadwara) during Niladri Bije.
Eventually, Lord Jagannath ends this playful marital quarrel by offering rasagolas and a black Pata saree to appease her!
According to belief, since the Lord leaves without her during Rath Yatra, Goddess Lakshmi blocks the entrance (Singhadwara) during Niladri Bije.
Eventually, Lord Jagannath ends this playful marital quarrel by offering rasagolas and a black Pata saree to appease her!
Significance of Bahuda Yatra
— More than a Return, It’s a Spiritual Reunion
Bahuda Yatra emphasizes the human-like emotions of divine beings. It reflects:
- Love & reconciliation (Jagannath & Lakshmi)
- Community participation in rituals
- Forgiveness & devotion as a path to divinity
What Happens Inside the Temple During Rath Yatra Days?
— The Silent Sanctum of Srimandira
While the deities stay at Gundicha Temple, Srimandira falls into an unusual silence. Meanwhile, the kitchen stops cooking, and temple servitors clean and repair the sanctum. Additionally, priests temporarily relocate other deities like Sridevi, Bhudevi, and Madhava near Jaya-Vijaya Dwar for darshan.
Temple authorities use this time for maintenance. Nevertheless, it offers visitors a rare, peaceful darshan experience.
While the deities stay at Gundicha Temple, Srimandira falls into an unusual silence. Meanwhile, the kitchen stops cooking, and temple servitors clean and repair the sanctum. Additionally, priests temporarily relocate other deities like Sridevi, Bhudevi, and Madhava near Jaya-Vijaya Dwar for darshan.
Temple authorities use this time for maintenance. Nevertheless, it offers visitors a rare, peaceful darshan experience.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Q1. What is the difference between Rath Yatra and Bahuda Yatra?
Rath Yatra is the outward journey of the deities to Gundicha Temple, while Bahuda Yatra is their return journey to the Jagannath Temple.
Q2. Why does Lord Jagannath stop at Mausima Temple during Bahuda Yatra?
He stops to visit His aunt and enjoys Poda Pitha, reflecting familial love in Jagannath culture.
Q3. What is Suna Vesha in Bahuda Yatra?
Suna Vesha is the ritual when deities wear gold ornaments on Bada Ekadashi, attracting lakhs of devotees for darshan.
Q4. What is the Niladri Bije ritual?
It is the re-entry of the deities into Srimandira, often accompanied by a humorous quarrel between Lakshmi and Jagannath.
Q5. Is Bahuda Yatra as crowded as Rath Yatra?
Yes, it draws huge crowds, though slightly less than Rath Yatra. Devotees flock to witness the divine return and participate in the rituals.
🌟 Experience Divinity at Bahuda Yatra 2025
If you truly want to experience divinity on earth, plan your spiritual trip to Puri during Bahuda Yatra 2025. Witness the grandeur, emotion, mythology, and celebration that unites millions.
Final Thoughts
Bahuda Yatra 2025 is more than a return journey—it’s a spiritual homecoming, a symbol of forgiveness, unity, and divine grace. Whether you believe in the legend or admire the culture, Bahuda Yatra brings everyone together under one spiritual sky.