BJP National VP Baijayant Panda visits Baladevjew shrine on Lord Balabhadra Jayanti and Rakhi Purnima

BJP National Vice President and Kendrapara MP Baijayant Panda on Saturday visited Baladevjew shrine in the district to seek divine blessings on the occasion of Lord Balabhadra Jayanti and Rakhi Purnima. 

Upon arrival, women welcomed him with the ceremonial Rakhi, symbolising the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. Panda then performed the Bedha Parikrama (circumambulation) of the shrine, offered prayers at the Lakshmi Temple, and sought blessings from Lord Baladevjew.

The BJP MP also met with the family members of the Pattamundai student, who was found charred to death under mysterious circumstances last week. He assured the bereaved family of a fair probe and timely justice. Accompanying him were Mahakalapada MLA, the BJP district president, and senior party workers.

Special rituals and ancient traditions

Reports stated that the morning began with the temple doors opening for devotees, followed by the Jayamangala Arati and ritual bathing (Nitisnana) of the deities. Lord Baladevjew, along with Lord Jagannath and Devi Subhadra, was adorned with new garments and the majestic Raj Abhisek Besa (royal attire).

One of the day’s highlights was the offering of one lakh tulasi leaves as a mark of devotion. As per centuries-old tradition, the ceremonial Pata Rakhi sent by Maa Subhadra from the Puri Srimandir was tied to both Lord Baladevjew and Lord Jagannath, symbolising divine sibling affection.

Birth anniversary feasts & offerings

In keeping with custom, a lavish spread of pithapana, khiri, and other delicacies was prepared for the deity. The temple priests distributed these offerings among devotees, sharing the blessings of the occasion.

The day also featured a yajna with one lakh ahutis (oblations), further sanctifying the atmosphere. The temple premises resonated with devotional chants, traditional music, and the fragrance of incense.

Pilgrims from across Odisha and neighbouring states flocked to Kendrapara to participate in the celebrations. For many, the day was not only about witnessing the grandeur of rituals but also experiencing the serene spirituality of Tulasi Kshetra.