The annual event of Jagannath Rath Yatra sees Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, step out of their sanctum and travel to the Gundicha Temple in colourful chariots. The latter is pulled by thousands of devotees. What truly makes this Yatra special is not just the scale, it’s also the fascinating rituals that are associated with it. From the royal Gajapati Maharaja sweeping the chariots’ floor to the deities being offered homemade delicacies, every custom tells a story. Each ritual has evolved over centuries and continues to connect people to the divine in ways that feel both intimate and extraordinary. Cherra Panhara This is an important ritual that involves Gajapati Maharja of Puri. As per this ritual, the Gajapati Maharaja of Puri, Divyasingha Deb, walks barefoot to sweep the area around Lord Jagannath鈥檚 and his siblings’ chariots. He does so using a broom with a gold handle. This ritual takes place before the chariots begin their grand journey. Not just this, he also sprinkles sandalwood-scented water and flower petals all around the chariots. Bahuda Yatra This ritual takes place on the 10th day, that is, Ashadha Shukla Dasami. So, when it’s time for deities – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra – to return after spending a few days at the Gundicha Temple, they are offered Poda Pitha. Now what is this? Well, it is a traditional baked cake made with rice, jaggery, coconut, and lentils. A popular ritual, devotees look forward to it. Also read: Draw This Symbol To Get Any Wish Fulfilled At This Ganesha Temple Suna Besha After the deities returning to the main temple in Puri, they are dressed in lavish gold ornaments. This ritual is called ‘Suna Besha’. In English, it translates to ‘Golden Attire.’ It goes without saying that a lot of people come to witness this ritual. It’s a sight to behold to see their deities glittering in gold. Niladri Bije On the day the three deities mark their return to the main temple in Puri, they have an important task to do. Wondering what that is? Well, the deities have to explain to goddess Lakshmi about their long absence. What follows in all this process is a brief drama that is endearing too. Eventually, the goddess invites all three lords back. Rasagola DivasWhen Lord Jagannath left for Gundicha Temple with his siblings, he didn鈥檛 take his consort, Goddess Lakshmi, along. So, when he returns to the temple, Lord Jagannath is not allowed to enter right away. To please the miffed goddess, he offers her the famous rasagola, a syrupy white sweet that has since become synonymous with this day. This charming exchange is seen as an act of love, reconciliation, and devotion. (Disclaimer: This article is based on popular beliefs. Times Now is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information and facts provided here.)