Puri: In preparation for the grand Bahuda Yatra, the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra to the Shree Jagannath Temple, public access through Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate) of Shree Gundicha Temple in Odisha’s Puri will remain closed from 6 pm on Thursday.
The closure, announced by Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration, facilitates the performance of essential rituals, including Shodha (sanctification and cleansing) of Gundicha Temple and other preparatory rites for the deities’ homeward procession scheduled for Friday, July 24.
This evening marks the auspicious Sandhya Darshan (also known as Navami or Adapa Mandap Darshan), considered one of the most spiritually significant occasions during the nine-day stay at Gundicha Temple. Devotees traditionally view the deities in a special setting before they return to their abode at the main Jagannath Temple.
The temple administration has appealed to devotees to cooperate for the smooth conduct of the rituals. “Devotees are humbly requested to kindly consider this arrangement regarding Navami/Sandhya Darshan in the spirit of service and extend their wholehearted cooperation to facilitate the smooth conduct of these rituals.”
The administration also expressed sincere gratitude to all servitors for their continued coordination and support in upholding the sanctity of the festival.
The Bahuda Yatra holds profound significance, symbolising the conclusion of the deities’ annual sojourn to their birthplace. Large crowds are expected for the chariot procession on July 24 along the traditional route back to the Singhadwara.