Is Nepal’s Turmoil Linked to the End of Kasturi Supply for Lord Jagannath’s Rituals?
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Synopsis
Concerns arise as Puri's Jagannath Temple servitors connect Nepal's political unrest to the halt of Kasturi supply, historically essential for rituals. This ancient bond between Nepal and Puri faces disruption, raising questions about spirituality and tradition amid modern challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Kasturi is essential for rituals at the Jagannath Temple.
- The link between Nepal and Puri is historical and spiritual.
- Recent political unrest in Nepal coincides with disruptions in musk supply.
- Servitors advocate for government action to restore supply.
- The absence of musk impacts both daily rituals and cultural heritage.
Bhubaneswar, Sep 12 (NationPress) A group of servitors from the Jagannath Temple in Puri have raised alarms regarding the ongoing unrest in Nepal, symbolically linking it to the halting of Kasturi (musk) supply that was historically sent from Nepal for the rituals of Lord Jagannath.
The servitors emphasized that natural musk, which was previously sourced from Nepal, is a vital element in the temple's daily and special ceremonies. It is primarily utilized during the Banak Lagi, a secretive and significant ritual for adorning the deities, and also serves to protect the sacred neem wood idols from pests while enhancing the beauty of Lord Jagannath's visage.
Reflecting on the historical ties between Nepal and Puri, Sarat Mohanty, a Chunara servitor, noted that musk is derived from the musk deer located near Lake Mansarovar in the Kailash region of the Himalayas.
This rare and precious substance was historically dispatched to Puri by the kings of Nepal, who had a deep spiritual connection with the Jagannath Temple.
As per temple traditions, Nepal’s rulers enjoy the unique honor of worshipping Lord Jagannath directly on the Ratna Singhasana (bejewelled throne) during their visits to Puri.
Mohanty further explained that Nepal's recent decline in musk supply, attributed to strict wildlife conservation regulations, has disrupted the temple's rituals.
He also recalled previous instances when the cessation of supply coincided with natural calamities in Nepal, such as earthquakes.
The current instability in Nepal may be linked to the disruption of musk supply to the Jagannath Temple, he stated. Servitor Mohanty urged state and federal governments to take necessary actions to ensure a consistent musk supply from Nepal, which would contribute to the progress and prosperity of the neighboring nation.
Another servitor, Sanjay Kumar Dutta Mahapatra, reiterated the crucial role of musk in various rituals conducted at the Jagannath Temple.
He mentioned that the Nepalese monarchy has ceased musk supply to the 12th-century shrine since 2017, asserting that this refusal is a significant factor behind the troubling conditions in Nepal.
Additionally, he indicated that the musk currently provided by the temple administration lacks in both quantity and quality.
The servitors concluded that the absence of musk not only hampers daily rituals but also disrupts an ancient spiritual bond between Nepal and Puri, which they believe holds broader implications for both areas.
Point of View
The concerns raised by the Jagannath Temple servitors highlight the deep-rooted spiritual connections between Nepal and India. The cessation of Kasturi supply, intertwined with historical ties, warrants attention from both nations to ensure that cultural heritage is preserved while respecting wildlife conservation laws.
NationPress
13/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kasturi and why is it important?
Kasturi, or musk, is a vital ingredient in the rituals of Lord Jagannath, enhancing the beauty of the deities and protecting idols during ceremonies.
How has the supply of Kasturi from Nepal changed?
The supply has been disrupted since 2017 due to strict wildlife conservation laws in Nepal, which previously provided musk regularly for rituals.
What historical ties exist between Nepal and the Jagannath Temple?
Historically, Nepalese kings maintained a spiritual bond with the Jagannath Temple, having the privilege to worship Lord Jagannath on his throne during visits.
What do the servitors believe about the connection between Nepal's turmoil and the musk supply?
They believe that the instability in Nepal may be linked to the cessation of musk supply, which they see as disrupting an ancient spiritual connection.
What actions do the servitors want from the government?
They urge both state and union governments to facilitate a steady supply of musk from Nepal to restore traditional rituals and strengthen ties.
