Baripada Ghosha Yatra Begins Amid Devotion, Women Lead Maa Subhadra’s Chariot Pull

Baripada: The annual Ghosha Yatra in Baripada, popularly known as the second Srikhetra, commenced on Thursday with thousands of devotees participating in the grand chariot procession amid an atmosphere of devotion and celebration.

The rituals began ahead of schedule as the Charamala was opened at around 2:30 pm, following which the Taladhwaja chariot of Lord Balabhadra started its journey on time. The town’s Bada Danda echoed with devotional chants of “Haribol” and traditional Hulahuli as devotees enthusiastically pulled the chariots.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Mohapatra said the successful conduct of the Yatra was possible only due to the blessings of Lord Jagannath. He expressed hope that favourable weather and the divine grace of the deities would make this year’s festival auspicious for people across the world.

A defining feature of the Baripada Rath Yatra once again was the procession of Maa Subhadra’s chariot, which has been pulled exclusively by women since the tradition began in 1975. Maharani Rashmi Rajyalakshmi Bhanj Deo said the unique custom reflects the spirit of women’s empowerment and equality, making the Baripada festival distinct from other Rath Yatras.

Even after heavy rain lashed the town around 4:30 pm, hundreds of women devotees continued pulling Maa Subhadra’s chariot with unwavering devotion. The day’s procession concluded as planned after the chariot reached near the Town Police Station.

The festival also witnessed participation from devotees arriving from Puri, Keonjhar and neighbouring Jharkhand, adding to the vibrant spiritual fervour. The chariot procession will continue over the next few days.