Early Morning Rituals Mark the Beginning of the Grand Festival
The world-famous Rath Yatra in Puri begins with a series of sacred rituals performed before sunrise inside the Jagannath Temple. The day starts with Mangala Alati, followed by Abakash (morning purification rituals) and the daily adornment of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra.
The rituals continue with Rosha Homa, Surya Puja, and Dwarapala Puja. Water is ceremonially sprinkled inside the sanctum, while temple servitors carry out traditional rituals associated with the deities. The Sakala Dhupa offering is then made with Khechudi, Pitha, Takua, and other sacred food preparations, which are offered through the traditional Shodasha Upachara rituals.
Continuous Worship During the Deities’ Journey
From the moment the deities leave the Ratna Singhasana (jeweled throne) until they return after the nine-day festival, temple worship continues without interruption.
Senior temple servitors perform Mangalarpana before the deities. Ritual offerings are arranged in brass vessels, while floral offerings and sacred cotton threads are prepared for the ceremonial adornment of the Lords. Nine special Tuli (sacred cotton wicks), traditionally supplied by Raghav Das Math, are used during the rituals.
Meanwhile, the Daitapati servitors untie the ceremonial bindings of the deities, marking the beginning of their journey outside the sanctum.
Temple Cleared Before the Pahandi Procession
Before the commencement of the Pahandi Bije, the Natamandap and Jagamohan are cleared and purified. Entry is restricted to only authorized temple servitors, officials on duty, and temple police personnel. No dignitaries or unauthorized persons are permitted inside the temple premises during this crucial phase of the rituals.
Pahandi Procession Begins with Sudarshan
The sacred Pahandi Bije begins with the ceremonial procession of Lord Sudarshan. Once Sudarshan reaches the Baishi Pahacha (22 steps), the procession of Lord Balabhadra begins, followed by Goddess Subhadra and finally Lord Jagannath.
As each deity reaches the Baishi Pahacha, they are adorned with the beautifully crafted Tahia, a traditional floral headgear presented by Raghav Das Math.
Music, Devotion and Chants Fill the Grand Procession
The Pahandi procession is accompanied by the sounds of Ghanta (bells), Kahali (traditional trumpets), and Telengi musical instruments. Temple servitors carry ceremonial umbrellas above the deities while devotees and cultural groups perform Odissi dance in front of the divine procession.
The air resonates with chants of “Hari Bol”, “Jai Jagannath”, and the traditional Hulhuli sounds, creating an atmosphere of unparalleled spiritual fervour.
Devotees Witness the Sacred Journey to the Chariots
Thousands of devotees witness the Pahandi from within the temple premises through specially designated barricaded areas. Entry for this special viewing is permitted through authorized tickets.
The Holy Trinity finally proceeds through Ananda Bazaar and the Baishi Pahacha before ascending their respective chariots, marking one of the most awaited and spiritually significant moments of the annual Rath Yatra.