07-07-2025
Bahuda Yatra celebrated in Tanzania
Rourkela: The Odia Samaj of Tanzania celebrated Bahuda Yatra, the return car festival of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, with traditional fervour in Dar es Salaam Sunday.
India's high commissioner to Tanzania, Biswajit Dey, performed the 'chhera pahanra'.
The ornately-decorated chariot carrying the deities was pulled from Swaminarayan temple on Pramukha Swami Street to Lord Jagannath temple on India Street, accompanied by devotees singing devotional songs. "With the blessings of the deities and support of our Tanzanian friends, we've recreated the magic of Puri right here in Dar es Salaam," said Bijaya Kumar Sahu, president of Odia Samaj Tanzania.
The celebration featured Odissi dance performances, devotional music, and traditional Odia cuisine, including 'poda pitha' served as prasad. Devotees dressed in traditional attire added to the festive ambience. "The high commissioner's presence not only brought us immense joy but also highlighted the strong spiritual and cultural ties between India and Tanzania," Sahu added.
The Odia Samaj has been organising Rath Yatra in Dar es Salaam since 2015. This year's Rath Yatra was celebrated on June 29.
