Rukmini Haran and Wedding Rituals to Be Held at Srimandir; Darshan to Remain Closed for Five Hours

The sacred rituals of Rukmini Haran and Rukmini Bibaha (wedding ceremony) will be observed at the world-famous Srimandir in Puri on Thursday on the occasion of Jyeshtha Shukla Ekadashi.

According to the Srimandir administration, public darshan will remain suspended from around 1 PM to 6 PM after the completion of the first Bhogamandap Bhoga ritual. Devotees will again be allowed to have darshan after 6 PM.

The Rukmini Haran ritual is based on an important episode from Hindu mythology. According to ancient scriptures, during the Dwapara Yuga, King Bhishmaka ruled the kingdom of Vidarbha. He had five sons and one daughter, Rukmini, who was known for her beauty, wisdom, and devotion.

Although Rukmini and Lord Krishna wished to marry each other, her elder brother Rukmi wanted her to marry King Shishupala of Chedi. When Rukmini came to know about this decision, she wrote a letter to Lord Krishna seeking his help.

After receiving the message, Lord Krishna arrived and rescued Rukmini by taking her away. A battle followed between Krishna and Shishupala, who had come for the marriage. Krishna defeated Shishupala and later married Rukmini on the same night.

Mythological Story Recreated Through Temple Ritual

The legendary episode is recreated every year at Srimandir as part of the temple’s traditional rituals. During the ceremony, Lord Jagannath’s representative deity, Madanmohan, participates in the ritual dressed in a special war attire, symbolising the battle fought by Lord Krishna.

The annual observance attracts devotees who witness the traditional presentation of one of the most significant episodes associated with Lord Krishna and Goddess Rukmini.