Dakshina Moda ritual marks preparations for Bahuda Yatra in Puri

Puri, Jul 2: As the Bahuda Yatra, the return journey of Lord Jagannath and His siblings, approaches, the 'Dakshina Moda' ritual will take place on Friday, marking a significant step in the festivities. The ritual, which involves the southward turn of the three massive chariots parked outside the Gundicha Temple, signals the start of preparations for the deities' return to their temple.

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Following the Sakala Dhupa ceremony, servitors will bring the 'Agnya Mala' (divine approval), and the chariots will be pulled and positioned near the Nakachana Dwara, the eastern gate of the Gundicha Temple. Security personnel and sevayats will pull the chariots from the Lions Gate to the Nakachana Gate.

The Dakshina Moda ritual is a key moment in the Yatra, where the three chariots, which have been facing north since the Rath Yatra, are turned southward toward the Jagannath Temple for the deities' return journey. Thousands of devotees gather to witness this significant event, as it marks the final phase of the Rath Yatra.

In a related development, the Hera Panchami festival, celebrated yesterday, depicted Goddess Lakshmi’s displeasure with Lord Jagannath for his extended absence from Srimandir during the Rath Yatra. In a cultural reflection of marital dynamics, where a wife may be upset by her husband's prolonged absence, Goddess Lakshmi expressed her anger by damaging part of Lord Jagannath’s chariot.

Carried in a palanquin, Goddess Lakshmi's procession made its way to the Gundicha Temple, with vibrant celebrations along the Puri Grand Road. After completing the traditional rituals, including Maha Snana, Sarbanga, Besha, and Bandapana, Goddess Lakshmi arrived near the Nandighosha chariot. However, despite receiving the 'Agnya Mala' (garland of consent), the temple doors were closed, leaving her feeling neglected. In frustration, she ordered the damage to the chariot. Later, feeling remorseful, Goddess Lakshmi returned secretly to Srimandir without further ceremony.