Security Measures Heightened for Lord Jagannath's Bahuda Yatra in Puri
Commencement of Lord Jagannath's Bahuda Yatra
The Bahuda Yatra, or the return chariot festival of Lord Jagannath, officially commenced on Saturday with the traditional 'Pahandi' ceremony. During this event, the deities are being ceremoniously transported from the Shri Gundicha Temple to the chariots stationed at Saradhabali.
Enhanced Security for the Bahuda Yatra
In Puri, Odisha, extensive security arrangements have been implemented for the Bahuda Yatra. A total of 6,000 state police officers and 800 personnel from the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) have been deployed to ensure the event proceeds without incident. Authorities noted that a tragic stampede occurred near the Gundicha Temple during the festivities on June 29, resulting in three fatalities. An official mentioned that favorable weather conditions are expected to draw large crowds for the Bahuda Yatra, prompting special traffic management measures.
Details of the Bahuda Yatra
The 'Pahandi' ceremony was initially scheduled to begin at noon but started earlier at 10:30 AM. During this procession, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Lord Jagannath are being taken to their respective chariots. The grand chariots, Taladhwaja (Balabhadra), Darpadalana (Subhadra), and Nandighosha (Jagannath), will be pulled by devotees from the Gundicha Temple to the main temple, covering a distance of approximately 2.6 kilometers. The Jagannath Temple was constructed in the 12th century.
Chief Minister's Greetings on Bahuda Yatra
Odisha's Chief Minister Mohan Chandra Majhi and Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly, Naveen Patnaik, extended their best wishes to the public on the occasion of the Bahuda Yatra. Majhi expressed his hopes for a life filled with happiness, peace, and prosperity for all in a post on social media. Before the 'Pahandi', several traditional rituals, including 'Mangala Aarti' and 'Maalam', were performed as the deities emerged from the temple's sanctum.
Ceremonial Chariot Cleaning
The Maharaja of Puri, Gajapati Divyasingh Deb, will conduct the ceremonial cleaning of the chariots, known as 'Chhera Pahanra', between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM. The ritual of pulling the chariots is scheduled for 4 PM, although an official indicated that this ceremony might occur earlier than planned.
Monitoring and Safety Measures
In Puri, stringent security measures are in place for the Bahuda Yatra, coinciding with the conclusion of the Ratha Yatra festival. Authorities have deployed 6,000 police officers and 800 CAPF personnel to maintain order. Following the tragic incident on June 29, where three individuals lost their lives in a stampede near the Gundicha Temple, officials have implemented special traffic arrangements due to anticipated large crowds. Over 275 AI-enabled CCTV cameras have been installed to monitor the crowd.
Police Leadership and Preparations
Senior police officials, led by Director General Y.B. Khurania, are stationed in Puri to ensure the smooth conduct of the Bahuda Yatra. Khurania stated to reporters on Friday, 'We have taken all possible measures to ensure the festival proceeds smoothly.'