Why are Lakhs of Devotees Visiting Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri for 'Snana Yatra'?
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Synopsis
This year, thousands of devotees gathered in Puri for the 'Snana Yatra,' witnessing the sacred bathing of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The event marks the lead-up to the much-anticipated Rath Yatra, set to begin on June 27. Join us as we explore the rituals and significance behind this divine spectacle.
Key Takeaways
- Snana Purnima is a key ritual marking the start of the Rath Yatra.
- The holy triad is bathed in sacred water from the Golden Well.
- Devotees participate in a grand procession known as Pahandi Bije.
- Significant security measures are in place to ensure safety.
- The deities experience a period of quarantine post-bathing.
Bhubaneswar, June 11 (NationPress) A multitude of devotees flocked to the revered city of Puri in Odisha to experience the divine event of Snana Purnima or Deva Snana Purnima, which involves the ritualistic bathing of the holy triad—Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra—at the renowned Jagannath temple on Wednesday.
This event marks the commencement of the widely celebrated Rath Yatra, set to take place on June 27 this year.
On Wednesday, the temple servitors conducted a grand procession known as Pahandi Bije, bringing the deities from their sanctum to the bathing platform called Snana Vedi, accompanied by the sound of traditional musical instruments like gongs and conch shells.
The deities were bathed using 108 pitchers of sacred, aromatic water sourced from a mysterious well referred to as the Sunakua or Golden Well located within the temple.
Post-bathing, the deities are adorned with unique elephant masks, commonly known as Gajanana Besha or Hathi Besha.
Following this, the deities are returned to the temple and placed in the Anasaragruha (isolation room).
It is believed that the holy siblings develop a fever from the bathing and remain inaccessible to everyone except the Daita and Paita servitors.
After a period of 14 days of anasara or quarantine, the idols are presented in a fresh appearance known as Naba Jaubana Darshana.
On this auspicious occasion of Snana Purnima, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi visited Puri and offered prayers at the Snana Bedi (bathing altar).
After observing the divine ritual, he proceeded to the Srimandir (Jagannath Temple) and later reviewed the ongoing construction of the chariots for the forthcoming Rath Yatra.
"I prayed to Lord Jagannath for the joy, peace, and well-being of people worldwide, especially in Odisha. I also sought blessings for a smooth and successful Rath Yatra festival," stated CM Majhi.
He expressed his satisfaction regarding the preparations made by the district administration and servitors for the Snana Purnima rituals in Puri.
The Puri Police have implemented extensive arrangements for crowd management and to prevent any incidents during the Snana Yatra festival.
A total of 70 platoons of police forces and 450 officers have been deployed to ensure security during the Snana Yatra.
Point of View
The Snana Yatra serves as a vital cultural and spiritual event that unites devotees from diverse backgrounds, emphasizing the rich heritage of India. The commitment from local authorities and police to ensure safety and smooth conduct reflects the nation's dedication to preserving traditions while adapting to modern challenges.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Snana Purnima?
Snana Purnima, or Deva Snana Purnima, is a significant ritual involving the bathing of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, marking the commencement of the Rath Yatra.
When is the Rath Yatra this year?
The Rath Yatra is scheduled to take place on June 27 this year.
What rituals are performed during Snana Purnima?
During Snana Purnima, the deities are bathed with 108 pitchers of holy water and are adorned with special masks known as Gajanana Besha.
How is security managed during the event?
The Puri Police have deployed 70 platoons of police and 450 officers to ensure crowd control and security during the Snana Yatra.
What happens after the bathing ceremony?
After the bathing, the deities are placed in isolation for 14 days before making their reappearance in a new form called Naba Jaubana Darshana.
