PNS
Pakur
Devotees in large numbers participated in the historic Bahuda (Return) Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath Madanmohan on Friday, as the deity ceremonially returned to the Jagannath Temple from the Mausi Bari (aunt’s house) after a nine-day stay.
The town reverberated with chants of “Jai Jagannath” as thousands of devotees pulled the beautifully decorated chariot through the streets. Religious hymns, kirtans and traditional dance performances by youth groups added to the festive atmosphere.
The return procession commenced from the Nityakali Temple premises at Rajapara, where devotees from Pakur and neighbouring areas had gathered since early morning to witness the annual event. The chariot carrying Lord Jagannath Madanmohan and Goddess Radhika was pulled by thousands of devotees amid elaborate religious rituals.
During the procession, priests seated on the chariot distributed prasad among the devotees, who eagerly received the sacred offering. Upon reaching the Jagannath Temple, the deities were welcomed with Vedic rituals, special prayers and a Maha Aarti, in which a large number of devotees participated.
Temple authorities said the deities traditionally stay at the Mausi Bari for eight days before returning to the main temple on the ninth day during the Bahuda Yatra.
Chief priest Bharat Mishra said the return of Lord Jagannath Madanmohan is celebrated according to long-standing religious traditions. He added that devotees believe the Lord becomes even more benevolent after returning from his visit to the Mausi Bari, making the occasion particularly auspicious.
Apart from the main celebration in Pakur town, a similar Rath Yatra was also organised in Lakhanpur Panchayat of Pakur Sadar block. The procession witnessed enthusiastic participation from villagers and local leaders, including BJP leaders Babudhan Murmu and Ratan Bhagat.
The annual Bahuda Rath Yatra concluded peacefully amid tight security arrangements, with devotees describing the festival as a vibrant celebration of faith, tradition and communal harmony.
