Puri, (Newshub Desk) – As the sun sets on the sacred city of Puri today, the grand finale of the nine-day-long Ratha Yatra, known as Niladri Bije, is set to unfold in divine splendour.
Lord Jagannath, accompanied by Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Shri Sudarshan, will ceremoniously return to the sanctum sanctorum of Shri Jagannath Temple—the Ratna Simhasana—following their journey on the grand chariots.
The Pahandi Bije procession, a ritual of sacred rhythm and deep devotion, will commence at 4:00 PM and conclude by 10:00 PM. Devotees from across India and beyond have gathered to witness this spiritual homecoming, as the Holy Trinity is welcomed with reverence, chants, and ceremonial fanfare.
Before the deities re-enter the temple, a series of detailed rituals unfold on the chariots, including Sandhya Alati, Sandhya Dhupa, and Charamala Bandha, followed by the cleansing of the Ratna Simhasana and floral offerings (Pushpanjali).
The inner sanctum ceremonies include Mahasnana (ritual bathing), Rosha Homa (fire offering), Mailama, Chandan Lagi, and the opulent Bada Singha Besha, where the deities are adorned in regal attire.
The night concludes with Raatra Pahuada, the resting of the deities.
A cultural and emotional high point is the enactment of Lakshmi-Narayana Kali—a symbolic reconciliation where Lord Jagannath offers Rasagola to appease Goddess Mahalakshmi for leaving her behind during Ratha Yatra.
This act is both a divine drama and a cherished sweet tradition that underscores Odisha’s deep-rooted customs.
The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has arranged elaborate security, logistics, and crowd management systems to ensure the safe and smooth observance of this spiritual milestone.
