SJTA Chief Administrator clarifies reason behind delay in Srimandir rituals

The Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Ranjan Kumar Das, on Wednesday, clarified the reason behind the delay in various rituals of Srimandir in Puri for the last two-three days.

As per reports, ‘Dwara Phita Neeti’ of Srimandir is getting delayed as rituals like ‘Sandhya Alati’ and ‘Madhyana Dhupa’ are getting extended.

According to the SJTA Chief Administrator most of the rituals in Srimandir are getting delayed due to the ongoing ‘Bhitara Chandan Yatra.'

Notably, the second phase of the 42-day-long Chandan Yatra of Lord Jagannath and his siblings Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra is called the ‘Bhitara Chandan Yatra’. The second phase of the popular festival is celebrated within the precincts of the temple.

Moreover, as per Das, most of the devotees are coming to Srimandir in the evening hours due to the scorching heat which is leading to a heavy rush in the temple. It is another reason behind the delay in various rituals at the 12th-century shrine.

“We have called a meeting of representatives of various servitor committees and a discussion is going on to find ways to avoid delay in various rituals of Srimandir,” said Das.

“The prevailing circumstances have forced the delay in the rituals. We have to keep several things including the convenience of the devotees in mind. Most of the devotees are not coming in the daytime to avoid the scorching heat and it is leading to a heavy rush during the evening hours. The rush of devotees also increased due to ‘Ekadasi’ and Sankranti’ which is beyond our control,” added Das.