Suna Besha 2025: The enchanting legend behind Lord Jagannath’s golden attire

Amid the resonating devotional chants and the rhythmic sounds of drums, cymbals, and flutes, Lord Jagannath, along with His divine siblings—Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra—is magnificently adorned in gold ornaments during one of the most captivating rituals of the Rath Yatra, known as Suna Besha.

This grand event takes place annually on the Ashadha Shukla Ekadashi Tithi (11th day of the waxing moon in the Odia month of Ashadha) in Puri, Odisha.

This dazzling ceremony is a vibrant celebration of Odisha’s rich cultural legacy, where the deities are draped in resplendent golden ornaments atop their majestic chariots. During this divine spectacle, Lord Jagannath’s unique form—with incomplete limbs—is transformed as golden arms, hands, and feet are fitted, enchanting all who witness it.

The Suna Besha, also referred to as Rajarajeswara Besha or Badatadahu Besha, is an essential tradition and one of the 13 major rituals observed annually at the sacred Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The deities’ golden attire during this time is not merely symbolic—it underscores their supreme divinity and royal stature.

The origins of this golden adornment trace back to the reign of King Kapilendra Deva (1435–1466 AD), a devout follower of Lord Jagannath. The king never considered himself the true ruler of Kalinga (ancient Odisha), instead proclaiming Lord Jagannath as the sovereign of the land. He saw himself merely as the Lord’s humble servant and representative.

According to legend, in 1460, after a victorious military campaign in the southern regions, King Kapilendra Deva returned with 16 cartloads of gold, diamonds, and precious gems. In a profound act of devotion, he donated the entire treasure to Lord Jagannath. He instructed that exquisite ornaments be crafted from these riches specifically for the deities, thereby initiating the tradition of Suna Besha.

Since then, during the annual Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are dressed in their glittering golden regalia on their chariots, offering a breathtaking sight to countless devotees.

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The ornaments used in this ritual are safeguarded in the Bhandara Ghar (temple treasury). On the appointed day, under tight security provided by armed police and temple officials, special servitors known as Bhandara Mekap bring out the sacred jewellery. These are then ceremoniously handed over to the Puspalaka and Daitapati priests, who adorn the deities in their divine golden splendor.

Thus, every year, Suna Besha continues to illuminate the hearts of devotees, symbolizing the timeless devotion and reverence that Odisha holds for its eternal ruler, Lord Jagannath.