Puri, Jul 24: After an eight-day stay at the Gundicha Temple, revered as the birthplace and the aunt's abode of the sibling deities, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra are all set to return to the 12th-century Shree Jagannath Temple during the Bahuda Yatra, the grand return journey that marks the concluding phase of the annual Rath Yatra festival.

During the sacred procession, Lord Jagannath will ride the majestic Nandighosha chariot, Lord Balabhadra (Bada Thakura) will travel on Taladhwaja, while Devi Subhadra will return on Darpadalana, also known as Devadalana. Lakhs of devotees are expected to line the Grand Road (Bada Danda) to witness the deities' homecoming.

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), in coordination with the Puri district administration, has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the smooth and peaceful conduct of the Bahuda Yatra. Comprehensive plans have been put in place for traffic regulation, crowd management, emergency response and the seamless performance of all traditional rituals.

Authorities have also implemented extensive security measures across the pilgrim town to facilitate safe movement of devotees. Police personnel, volunteers and temple officials will remain deployed at key locations to manage the massive gathering expected during the festival.

Bahuda Yatra is one of the most significant events in the Jagannath tradition, symbolising the divine return of the sibling deities to their eternal abode at Srimandir after their annual sojourn to Gundicha Temple. The sacred journey is expected to draw lakhs of devotees from across the country and abroad, adding to the spiritual fervour that defines the world-famous Rath Yatra festival.