The sacred town of Puri will witness one of the most emotionally significant rituals of the annual Rath Yatra today as Hera Panchami, observed on the fifth day of the nine-day chariot festival, is celebrated with great devotion. More than just a temple ritual, Hera Panchami represents a timeless tale of love, separation, marital affection and divine play in the Jagannath tradition.

The festival commemorates the symbolic visit of Goddess Lakshmi to the Gundicha Temple after Lord Jagannath departs for His annual sojourn along with His elder brother Lord Balabhadra and sister Devi Subhadra, leaving Her behind at the Srimandir.

According to Jagannath tradition, Goddess Lakshmi, upset over not being taken along on the journey, sets out to bring Lord Jagannath back to the temple. However, she is informed that the Lord will return only after completing His nine-day stay at the Gundicha Temple. Angered by this, the Goddess symbolically damages a portion of Nandighosha, Lord Jagannath’s chariot, before returning to the Srimandir. This unique ritual, depicting divine affection expressed through loving resentment, is known as Hera Panchami.

The ceremony is regarded as one of the most cherished episodes of the Rath Yatra, reflecting the human emotions of love, longing and reconciliation through divine symbolism.

Temple Schedule for Hera Panchami

As per the schedule issued by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the day’s rituals began early in the morning.

The temple doors opened at 4:00 AM, followed by Mangala Alati before 5:00 AM. Rituals including Mailam, Tadap Lagi, and Abakash Niti were completed by 6:00 AM.

Sahanamela Darshan was held from 6:30 AM to 7:30 AM, followed by Rosha Homa, Surya Puja, Dwarapala Puja, and the adornment of the deities.

The Sakala Dhupa ritual is scheduled between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM, while Bhoga Mandap offerings will be completed by 12:30 PM.

Later in the day, the deities will undergo Mailam, Yatrangi Mahasnana, Ghanta Chhata Sarbang, and Nua Lugaa Lagi rituals before the Madhyahna Dhupa, scheduled between 3:00 PM and 4:30 PM. The second Bhoga Mandap offering will conclude by 5:30 PM.

Evening rituals include Sandhya Alati, Mahasnana, Alankara Lagi, and Sandhya Dhupa.

During the Sandhya Dhupa ritual, Goddess Lakshmi (Shridevi) will proceed from the Srimandir to the chariot near the Gundicha Temple. After receiving the Agyan Mala (garland of permission), the symbolic Hera Panchami ritual will be performed before the Goddess returns to the temple.

The Sandhya Dhupa is expected to conclude by 9:50 PM, followed by Mailam, Chandana Lagi, Badasinghara Besha, and finally Pahuda, which is scheduled to conclude around 1:00 AM.

Hera Panchami remains one of the most spiritually and culturally significant observances of the Jagannath tradition, drawing lakhs of devotees every year to witness this unique expression of divine love and devotion during the world-famous Rath Yatra.