Daily Rituals

The daily rituals observed in the Sri Jagannath Temple, known as "nitis," are meticulously conducted by designated sevakas, each responsible for specific religious rites. These rituals, which have been a tradition since the 13th century AD, reflect a routine mirroring human attributes, including bathing, dressing, meals, and rest.

The day commences with "Dwaraphita and Mangal Alati" at 5 AM, marking the opening of the temple's inner sanctum. This ritual involves checking the seals on the locks from the previous night and offering sacred lamps to the deities. Following this, "Mailam" at 6 AM signifies the changing of the deities' night attire, conducted by Pushpalak sevakas.

• "Abakash" at 6 AM to 6.30 AM involves brushing the deities' teeth and bathing them. Various sevakas participate, including Pushpalaks, Suarbadaus, and Pratiharis, while an astrologer reads out the day's astrological details.
• "Besa Mailam" at 6.45 AM sees the deities donning new garments, reflecting the day of the week through distinct colors. This ritual involves Pushpalaks, Changada Mekaps, Suarbadus, and Dhobas.
• During "Sahanamela" from 7 AM to 8 AM, devotees have the opportunity for close darshan of the deities without touching them. This is followed by "Besha Ulagi" between 8 AM to 8.30 AM, where the deities are adorned with specific-colored attire and precious stone-studded ornaments.
• At 8.30 AM, "Rosa Homa" involves offering oblations to the kitchen fire, followed by "Surya Puja" near Muktimandap inside the temple. "Dwarapala Puja," worshipping the gatekeepers, is then performed by a Pujapanda sevak.
• "Gopala Ballav Bhoga" at 9 AM signifies the deities' breakfast, including various items like Khai, Kora, and ripe bananas. This is followed by "Sakal Dhupa" at 10 AM, where a variety of food items are offered to the deities.
• At 11 AM, "Bhoga Mandap Bhoga" sees the offering of rice, dal, and various cakes in a dedicated hall. "Dwiprahara Dhupa" at 1 PM repeats the offering of food, followed by "Madhyan Pahuda" around 1.30 PM to 2 PM, when the deities retire for a mid-day rest.
• The day concludes with "Sandhya Alati" in the evening and "Sandhya Dhupa" at 8 PM, both involving offerings to the deities. "Mailam and Chandanalagi" sees the changing of attire and application of sandalwood paste, followed by "Badasinghar Besa" at night.
• Lastly, "Badasinghar Dhupa" at around 11 PM involves offering food to the deities, and "Khata Sejulagi and Pahuda" at midnight signifies the deities' retiring to bed.

Other Riturals are:

  • Ekanta Niti:
    This ritual, conducted on Thursdays, holds a special significance. It involves the tender moments of the deities' retreat to solitude, symbolizing a serene communion with the divine. During Ekanta Niti, the temple ambiance resonates with an aura of tranquility, offering devotees an opportunity for introspection and spiritual contemplation.
  • Nakhetra Bandapan:
    This ritual celebrates the sacred bond between Lord Jagannath and the land of Odisha. The term "Nakhetra" refers to the land of Odisha, emphasizing the deity's deep-rooted connection with the region. Nakhetra Bandapan signifies the Lord's blessings upon the land and its people, fostering a sense of unity and reverence among devotees.
  • Ekadasi Niti:
    Ekadasi, the eleventh day of the lunar fortnight, holds immense spiritual significance in Hindu tradition. On this auspicious day, devotees observe fasting and engage in devotional activities to seek divine blessings and spiritual upliftment. The Ekadasi Niti ritual within the Sri Jagannath Temple underscores the importance of self-discipline and devotion in the pursuit of spiritual growth.
  • Amabasya Niti:
    Amabasya, the new moon day, is considered a potent time for spiritual practices and offerings to ancestors. The Amabasya Niti ritual within the temple premises serves as a solemn acknowledgment of ancestral blessings and a reminder of the cyclical nature of existence. Devotees participate in prayers and offerings, seeking divine grace and blessings for themselves and their forebears.
  • Sagar Bije:
    This ritual commemorates a legendary event from Hindu mythology wherein Lord Jagannath quells the fury of the ocean during his divine sojourn. Sagar Bije symbolizes the Lord's omnipotence and his ability to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. It serves as a powerful reminder of faith, courage, and the triumph of righteousness over adversity.
  • Banaka Lagi:
    Banaka Lagi is a ritual that celebrates the Lord's playful interactions with his devotees, reminiscent of the endearing exchanges between a parent and child. The term "Banaka" alludes to the playful antics of Lord Jagannath, fostering a sense of joy and intimacy among devotees. Through Banaka Lagi, devotees connect with the Lord on a personal level, experiencing the warmth and affection of his divine presence.
  • Solar and Lunar Eclipse Niti:
    Solar and lunar eclipses are significant celestial events in Hindu cosmology, believed to influence spiritual energies and cosmic vibrations. The Solar and Lunar Eclipse Niti rituals within the temple precincts seek to mitigate any adverse effects of these astronomical phenomena through prayers, offerings, and devotional practices. Devotees gather to seek divine protection and guidance during these celestial occurrences, reaffirming their faith in the benevolent grace of the divine.
  • Mahasnan Niti:
    Mahasnan, or the grand bath, is a ceremonial bathing ritual conducted with utmost pomp and splendor. During Mahasnan Niti, the deities are ritually bathed with consecrated water, symbolizing purification and rejuvenation. This sacred ablution signifies the cleansing of impurities and the restoration of divine vitality, infusing the temple atmosphere with an aura of sanctity and spiritual renewal.

These rituals, steeped in tradition and symbolism, form an integral part of the spiritual tapestry of the Sri Jagannath Temple, enriching the lives of devotees and fostering a deep sense of reverence and devotion towards the divine.