‘Gamha Purnima’ or ‘Raksha Bandhan’ is being celebrated across the State today with religious fervor, pomp and gaiety. As per the rituals, sisters tie ‘Rakhi’ (a sacred thread) to their brothers’ wrists on this special occasion and in return brothers give them the assurance of safety and security throughout their lives.
The whole State is in a celebrative mood on this special festival. Special Odia delicacies are prepared in every household and cultural programmes are organised across the State.
However, as per the ritual, Raksha Bandhan’ will be observed in Puri Srimandir tomorrow. Elder brother Lord Balabhadra’s birthday will be celebrated in Srimandir tomorrow. On this occasion, younger sister Goddess Subhadra will tie special rakhis to the wrist of Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra.
Like other festivals, it also involves a number of rituals, while the ‘rakhis’ for Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra are prepared through an elaborate procedure.
As per tradition, Patara Bisoyi servitors prepare the rakhis for the sibling deities, known as ‘Pata Rakhis’, which Goddess Subhadra ties to Her brothers.
“Lord Jagannath and Balabhadra have a special bond with their sister Goddess Subhadra. They take Her with them during Rath Yatra instead of Goddess Laxmi. Hence, Raksha Bandhan has a special significance at Puri Srimandir,” said Jagannath Culture Researcher, Naresh Chandra Das.