Bhubaneswar: Drawing curtains on the annual Rath Yatra that began on July 16, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra returned to the sanctum sanctorum of their temple in Puri during Niladri Bije on Monday.Despite incessant rain, thousands of devotees thronged Grand Road, on which the temple is located, to witness the concluding rituals and catch a final glimpse of the deities on their majestic chariots this year. The atmosphere was charged with chants of “Jai Jagannath” as servitors carried out the age‑old traditions with precision.The ceremonial Pahandi procession began with the escorting of the idols of Lords Rama and Krishna from Taladhwaja chariot and Madan Mohan from Nandighosh into the shrine. Lord Jagannath’s sacred weapon, Sudarshan, was then ceremonially carried from Devidalana chariot. The sequence continued with Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and finally Lord Jagannath being escorted inside amid beating of drums and cymbals and blowing of conch shells.In keeping with the tradition, Goddess Mahalaxmi symbolically barred Lord Jagannath’s entry at Jaya Vijaya door, symbolising her displeasure at being left behind during the deities’ journey to Gundicha Temple. “When Lord Jagannath was stopped, he sought forgiveness by offering ‘rasagolas’ to his divine consort. Only after receiving the sweet offering did Goddess Mahalaxmi relent and allow him entry,” said Binayak Dasmohapatra, a senior servitor.Devotees said the ritual carries timeless social meaning. “This tradition reflects the dynamics of marital life. In today’s times, disagreements often escalate. The divine couple’s reconciliation through respect and understanding is a lesson for all,” said Pranati Sahoo, a devotee from Bhubaneswar.Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) said that all rituals from Rath Yatra to Niladri Bije were conducted smoothly. “Though rain delayed proceedings, the cooperation of servitors ensured everything was performed seamlessly. The devotion of the devotees and discipline of the servitors made this year’s festival smooth and successful,” said SJTA chief administrator Arabinda Kumar Padhee.
