No public darshan in Puri Srimandir from 6-10 pm today due to Banakalagi rituals

The Puri Srimanir will remain closed for four hours today due to Banakalagi ritual of Lord Jagannath and His Siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. 

Devotees will be barred from having darshan of the deities from 6 pm to 10 pm on Thursday due to the rituals.

This sacred ceremony will begin after the 'Madhyanna Dhoopa' on the Ratnabedi. The ritual, performed by the Dutta Mohapatra servitors, is a significant event that emphasizes traditional artistry and devotion. 

Due to the sacred nature of this ritual, public darshan is prohibited to allow the servitors to complete the ceremony without disruption.

What Is Banakalagi Ritual?

The term ‘Banaka’ refers to the vibrant colours used in this ritual, where the faces of the deities are decorated with various traditional organic pigments. 

The Dutta Mahapatra servitors will meticulously apply colours from naturally sourced products, including haritala (red), hengula (yellow), sankha (white), and kala (black). This careful repainting process is not only a form of beautification but also a profound act of reverence.

As part of the Banakalagi rituals, the deities will undergo an intricate ‘shringar’, highlighting their divine beauty and significance. Following the completion of the rituals, the deities will receive a Maha Snana, a ceremonial bathing ritual. 

Thereafter, the doors of the temple will reopen, allowing devotees to experience the breathtaking sight of the Holy Trinity in their resplendent forms.

This time-honoured ritual not only showcases the rich cultural heritage of Odisha but also reinforces the deep spiritual connection that devotees share with the deities, making it a significant highlight of the belief that stems from the heart of the devotees.