Special ‘Pahili Bhoga’ ritual begins at Puri Jagannath Temple on Dhanu Sankranti

The Pahili Bhoga ritual at the Puri Srimandir began on Tuesday, marking the sacred Dhanu Sankranti. On this occasion, special rituals were performed at the temple amid traditional fervour. 

As part of the Dwara Phita (opening of the temple doors) ritual, the temple doors were opened at 2 am Between 5:30 am and 6 am, Pahili Bhoga was offered to the Holy Trinity as part of the day’s ceremonial proceedings. The Pahuda ritual is scheduled to be observed at 11 pm today.

According to temple authorities, the Pahili Bhoga ritual holds a great religious significance during the Dhanu month and is offered early in the morning as per age-old traditions. From today until January 13, the special Pahili Bhoga ritual will be observed before the Holy Trinity.

Meanwhile, on January 3, the temple will witness the Debabhisheka ritual, along with the rare Suna Besha of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, drawing large numbers of devotees.

According to tradition, during this one-month period, Goddess Lakshmi is believed to reside at her parental home. As part of the custom, Mother Yashoda is said to offer special delicacies to Mahaprabhu, including pitha prepared from lentils and wheat flour, sweetened with ghee and jaggery, along with the traditional Dhanu Muan.

Devotees thronged the temple to witness the special rituals and seek divine blessings.