What is the Niladri Bije Ritual That Marks the End of the Annual Chariot Festival in Odisha?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Niladri Bije ritual in Puri marks the conclusion of the annual chariot festival, where thousands gather to witness the ceremonial return of Lord Jagannath and his siblings to the temple, accompanied by the fascinating tradition involving Goddess Laxmi and Rasagola. Discover the enchanting customs and significance behind this revered ceremony.
Key Takeaways
- Niladri Bije is the final ritual of the annual chariot festival.
- The ceremony involves the return of deities to the Jagannath temple.
- Goddess Laxmi's anger is pacified with Rasagola.
- Rasagola Divas celebrates the tradition of offering sweets during the ritual.
- Historical references to Rasagola date back to the 15th century.
Bhubaneswar, July 8 (NationPress) The Niladri Bije ritual, marking the final phase of the annual chariot festival, began in Puri on Tuesday. Thousands of devotees gathered in this sacred coastal city to witness this revered event.
In line with age-old customs, during Niladri Bije, also known as the homecoming ceremony of deities, the ‘Chaturdha Murti’—Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and Chakraraj Lord Sudarshan—are ceremoniously returned to the sanctum sanctorum of the Jagannath temple from their respective chariots, in a procession called ‘Pahandi’.
The divine siblings, who traveled to their ‘Janma Vedi’ or birthplace at Gundicha Temple, approximately 3 km from the Jagannath Temple, on a nine-day pilgrimage starting June 27 this year, will re-enter the 12th-century shrine on Tuesday, a day widely recognized for the ‘Niladri Bije’ ceremony.
A unique aspect of this ritual involves an irate Goddess Laxmi, who shuts the main temple door, preventing Lord Jagannath from entering. To appease her anger and gain entry, Lord Jagannath offers her Rasagola.
This captivating episode concludes the annual Rath Yatra of the divine siblings.
The ritual is celebrated on the Trayodashi tithi of the Shukla Paksha (13th day of the waxing moon) in the month of Asadha according to the Hindu calendar.
Additionally, ‘Rasagola Divas’ was commemorated across Odisha on the same day. This annual celebration coincides with ‘Niladri Bije’ to honor the time-honored tradition of presenting the sweet delicacy to Goddess Laxmi during this important ritual.
It's notable that in response to the debate regarding the origin of Rasagola, Odisha officially designated ‘Niladri Bije’ as Rasagolla Divas in 2015 and has been celebrating this day since July 30, 2015.
Experts on the Jagannath cult and its traditions assert that the sweet treat is referenced as ‘Rasagola’ in the 15th-century Odia text, Jagamohana Ramayana, by the esteemed poet and devotee Balaram Das.
Point of View
I believe the Niladri Bije ritual exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of Odisha. This annual event not only showcases the deep spiritual connection of the devotees but also highlights the significance of traditions that have been preserved over centuries. It's a reminder of our collective identity and reverence for the divine.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Niladri Bije ritual?
The Niladri Bije ritual marks the conclusion of the annual chariot festival, celebrating the homecoming of Lord Jagannath and his siblings to the Jagannath temple, embodying centuries-old traditions.
Why is Rasagola offered to Goddess Laxmi during this ceremony?
Rasagola is offered to appease Goddess Laxmi, who traditionally expresses her displeasure by closing the temple door, symbolizing the importance of harmony in the divine family.
When is Rasagola Divas celebrated?
Rasagola Divas is celebrated annually on the same day as Niladri Bije to honor the tradition of offering the sweet dessert to Goddess Laxmi.
What is the Trayodashi tithi?
The Trayodashi tithi is the 13th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Asadha, marking the day of the Niladri Bije ritual.
What historical references exist regarding Rasagola?
Rasagola is mentioned in the 15th-century Odia text, Jagamohana Ramayana, by the notable poet Balaram Das, highlighting its historical significance.
