On Day 6 of the famous Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, an important event called Dakshina Moda takes place. It marks the beginning of the preparations for the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Sudhabra to their main temple. On this day, the chariots are turned to face south, starting the countdown to the Bahuda Yatra, or return journey, which will happen on July 5th, 2025.
Dakshina Moda means ”turning to the south.” On this day, the three chariots are turned to face the direction of the main Jagannath Temple. This turning is a special ritual that begins the return journey of the deities from the Gundicha Temple back to their original place.
The three grand chariots are:
These chariots are carefully turned southward. This movement shows the deities are ready to go back home.
Dakshina Moda is the first step in getting ready for the Bahuda Yatra. It is like saying goodbye to the Gundicha Temple, where the deities have stayed for a few days.
Before the deities begin their return journey, the chariots are checked and repaired if needed. Teams of temple officials and workers inspect the wooden structures, wheels and decorations to make sure everything is safe and ready.
Dakshina Moda is not just a turning of the chariots. It has a deep spiritual meaning. Turning south represents the return to the spiritual center – the Jagannath Temple. It shows the cycle of the journey: from home, to another place and back again. This also reflects the cycle of life and devotion.
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