Rath Yatra 2025: Know What Is Biasi Pahacha In Jagannath Puri Temple And Why Devotees Skip The Third Step?

Jagannath Rath Yatra is a significant Hindu festival which is mostly celebrated in Odisha. Each year, the sacred town of Puri in Odisha bursts with spirituality, devotion, and festivity while it celebrates the Jagannath Rath Yatra, one of India's largest and most ancient festivals. In this yearly procession, Lord Jagannath, accompanied by his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, travels from the holy Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple.

Among the interesting traditions of the Jagannath Temple is the significance of the Baisi Pahacha, also known as the 22 steps, leading from the temple entrance to the sanctum.

What is Baisi Pahacha?

The Baisi Pahacha refers to the 22 stone steps at the Jagannath Temple in Puri. These steps are highly sacred and hold deep spiritual importance for devotees. Pilgrims climb these steps to reach the main temple complex and catch a glimpse of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra. Devotees consider each step to represent a distinct life phase while their ascent functions as a path to spiritual cleansing.

Why do devotees skip the third step?

A unique custom associated with the Baisi Pahacha is that devotees often avoid stepping on the third step while exiting the temple. This step is known as Yamashila and is believed to be associated with Yama, the god of death, according to Hindu mythology. According to legends, Lord Jagannath placed Yamaraj on the third step and stated that anyone stepping on it after having Darshan would have their merits erased and would have to go to Yamaloka (the realm of the dead).

What is Yamshila?

The Yam Shila in Jagannath Temple is a black stone, known as the Yam Shila or Yama's Stone. It is different from the other steps because of its colour and texture. This stone is believed to be associated with Yama, the God of Death, and is an important part of the spiritual journey of devotees. According to the belief, devotees may step on the Yamshila while entering the temple to have their sins absolved, but on their way out, they should avoid it, which could negate the positive effects of their visit. The third step in the Shree Jagannath temple is treated with reverence and caution, and devotees generally avoid stepping on it.

Spiritual significance of Baisi Pahacha

The Baisi Pahacha is not just a physical staircase; it represents the spiritual journey of a devotee towards salvation. Skipping the third step is seen as an act of humility and surrender before the divine. During the Rath Yatra 2025, as thousands gather at the temple, this tradition will once again highlight the deep faith and unique customs associated with Lord Jagannath.