Hailakandi: The celebration of Ulto Rath Yatra (Return Chariot Festival) witnessed a massive turnout and widespread enthusiasm in Hailakandi district headquarters on Saturday, marking the culmination of the week-long Rath Yatra festivities.

According to tradition, the return journey of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra from their aunt’s residence (Mausi Bari) to their original abode took place on this day. As per custom, several chariots around seven to eight made their way back to their respective temples, accompanied by fervent devotional chants and rituals.

This year, the active participation of people of all ages from children to the elderly in the pulling of the chariots sent a strong message of cultural continuity and community unity. The age-old ritual of rope-pulling during both the Rath Yatra and the Ulto Rath was observed with great devotion and joy, reaffirming the spiritual and cultural fabric of the region.

Chariots this year were taken out from several notable locations in Hailakandi town, including Baneswar Shiva Temple, Hatat Colony Akhara, Radharaman Sebashram, Bhubaneswar Sadhu Thakur Mandir, and the Bazaar’s Radha-Madhav Akhara, among others. On Saturday, the return chariot processions were conducted amidst soulful Harinam Sankirtan, as Lord Jagannath was ceremonially brought back to his sanctum.

The festival concluded peacefully, leaving behind a deep sense of devotion and cultural pride among the residents.