Poda Pitha Offered to Holy Trinity at Mausi Maa Temple During Bahuda Yatra in Puri

Puri: The centuries-old tradition of offering the sacred Poda Pitha to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra was observed with deep devotion on Friday as the deities made their return journey to the Shree Jagannath Temple during the annual Bahuda Yatra.

As the three grand chariots reached Balagandi on the Bada Danda, they halted near the Mausi Maa Temple, dedicated to Goddess Ardhashani, who is revered as the maternal aunt of Lord Jagannath. In keeping with age-old customs, the temple servitors presented the traditional Odia delicacy, Poda Pitha, to the Holy Trinity on behalf of the Goddess.

Following the sacred offering, the chariots resumed their journey towards the Singha Dwara of the Jagannath Temple amid chants of devotion from thousands of devotees lining the Grand Road.

The Mausi Maa Temple, situated along the route to the Srimandir, houses Goddess Ardhashani, a black stone idol with two arms, accompanied by her attendants, Chaya and Maya. The deity is believed to bear a close resemblance to Devi Subhadra.

According to historical and local traditions, Balagandi derives its name from the ancient river once known as Hathi Gadhua or Balbattar Gandi. In earlier times, the chariots of the deities would halt at this spot before devotees crossed the river to continue their journey to the Gundicha Temple.

The ritual of offering Poda Pitha at Mausi Maa’s abode has since become an integral part of the Bahuda Yatra, symbolising the affectionate bond between the Lord and His aunt. Every year, lakhs of devotees gather at Balagandi to witness this cherished tradition, making it one of the most emotional and spiritually significant moments of the Rath Yatra celebrations.

The brief halt of the chariots at Mausi Maa Temple once again filled the Grand Road with devotion and emotion, adding another memorable chapter to this year’s Bahuda Yatra festivities.