Pahili Bhoga ritual at Puri Srimandir to conclude ahead of Makar Sankranti

The Pahili Bhoga ritual at PuriSrimandir, which begins on the occasion of Dhanu Sankranti, will conclude on the day preceding Makar Sankranti. The ritual forms an important part of the daily worship of Lord Jagannath and is observed in accordance with long-standing temple traditions.

As part of the customary rituals at the Srimandir, Pahili Bhoga is offered after the Gopala Ballabha ritual. According to tradition, the offering is completed before the crow caws in the early morning hours, marking the conclusion of the ritual for the day.

Significance of the Pahili Bhoga Offering

The ritual holds special religious significance as it commemorates Mother Yashoda feeding her beloved son, Lord Krishna, with various kinds of pitha. In keeping with age-old customs, Pahili Bhoga is offered to Lord Jagannath every day during this period.

Temple servitors said the ritual reflects maternal affection and devotion, symbolising the care and concern of the divine mother for the Lord.

Wide Variety of Pitha Offered as Bhoga

Several varieties of traditional pitha are prepared and offered as part of Pahili Bhoga. Explaining the ritual, a servitor of the Srimandir said that Pahili Bhoga includes much more than regular items such as khechudi and dalma.

“Pahili Bhoga is prepared by Goddess Bimala and includes items such as chuda bhaja, gaintha, enduri, tikili, kantei, kakeri nali, bada, mugei, ambalu, kakera, chota and bada jhilli, laddoo and several other delicacies, which are offered to Lord Jagannath,” the servitor said.

He added that a detailed list of items is prepared in advance and handed over to the Mahasuar, who ensures that the bhoga is prepared as per tradition. Raw materials are supplied from the temple godown based on the requirements, and the offerings are then served to the Lord.

Belief Linked to Early Morning Offering

Speaking about the belief associated with the ritual, the servitor said Goddess Bimala ensures that the Lord is fed at the earliest. “While Goddess Lakshmi prepares food later in the morning, Goddess Bimala begins cooking around 3.30 am so that the bhoga can be offered to Lord Jagannath at the earliest,” he said.

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Devotees also receive prasad early in the morning when Pahili Bhoga is offered. However, servitors noted that the ritual may occasionally be delayed due to the conduct of the Maha Snana ritual.