Khalikote, July 25: The historic Bahuda Yatra of Lord Jagannath concluded peacefully and with great religious fervour at Khalikote on Saturday, as more than 20,000 devotees gathered to witness the return journey of the Holy Trinity to the main temple.

The rituals commenced at around 5:00 PM, when the deities were ceremoniously escorted to their respective chariots through the traditional Pahandi procession amid chants of "Jai Jagannath." The Raj Purohit performed the sacred Chhera Pahanra ritual, ceremonially sweeping the three chariots before the return procession began from the Gundicha Temple.

Thousands of devotees then pulled the three chariots towards the Singhadwara of the main temple with deep devotion and enthusiasm. The Bahuda Yatra was marked by continuous devotional singing, the rhythmic beats of ghanta, khol, and kartal, and the participation of women's Sankirtan groups and members of various religious organisations, creating a spiritually vibrant atmosphere throughout the procession.

One of the most touching moments of the festival was the sight of women devotees pulling the chariot of Goddess Subhadra with immense faith and devotion, reflecting the unique traditions and cultural heritage of Khalikote's centuries-old Rath Yatra.

The entire festival concluded in a disciplined and orderly manner under elaborate security arrangements made by the Khalikote Police and the district administration. Officials said the coordinated efforts of police, volunteers, and temple authorities ensured the smooth conduct of the Bahuda Yatra despite the massive turnout of devotees.