Puri: Rituals are underway for return journey, also called as Bahuda Yatra, of sibling deities of Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri after the annual sojourn at Gundicha temple, considered their birthplace.
During the homeward journey, Lord Jagannath in his Nandighos chariot will make a brief halt at Mausi Maa Temple here for Poda Pitha treat on His chariot.
Poda Pitha is prepared under the supervision of Bishwanath Mishra, the chief servitor of the temple of Maa Ardhaswasini, known as deities’ aunt. The sweet dish is made from milk, chhena (cottage cheese), wheat flour, jaggery, cloves, ghee, and cardamom. The dough is then cut and fried in ghee.
Legend has it that a river called Malini was flowing between Srimandir and Gundicha Temple. As a result, six chariots were built. The sibling deities rode in three large chariots from Jagannath Temple to Mausi Maa Temple, from where they were shifted to a boat and then taken to Gundicha Temple in the other three chariots.
Due to the high water level in the river, the servitors faced problems while crossing it. The deities’ aunt understood the hardships of the servitors and was instrumental in drying up the river for the smooth conduct of the festival.
To express His gratitude, Lord Jagannath then promised to stop by her temple and accept Poda Pitha during Bahuda Yatra.
