The holy town of Puri has come alive with devotion as Deba Snana Purnima, one of the most significant festivals in the annual Jagannath calendar, is being observed today. After a year-long wait, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra and Sudarshan were ceremonially brought out from the Ratna Singhasan to the Snana Bedi (bathing altar), where they will bless devotees with the rare Hati Besha (Elephant Attire).

Lakhs of devotees from across Odisha and other parts of the country have gathered in Puri to witness the sacred rituals and seek the blessings of the deities.

Sacred Rituals Mark the Grand Festival

The ceremonial Pahandi procession began early in the morning between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM, during which the deities were carried in a grand procession to the Snana Bedi.

The main Snana (holy bathing) ritual is scheduled between 12:20 PM and 1:45 PM, followed by the traditional Hati Besha at around 4:30 PM. Devotees will also get an opportunity for Sahan Mela Darshan from 7:30 PM to 10:30 PM, allowing them to have a closer view of the deities. The deities will return to the sanctum through the Bahuda Pahandi late at night.

Thousands of Pilgrims Throng Puri

The festival has transformed Puri into a sea of devotees, with pilgrims lining the Grand Road and surrounding areas since the early hours. Dev Snana Purnima is considered one of the most important public appearances of the deities before the annual Rath Yatra.

Following today’s bathing ceremony, the deities are believed to fall ill and will remain away from public view during the Anasara period before reappearing for the Rath Yatra.

Heavy Security and Traffic Restrictions in Place

With a massive influx of pilgrims and tourists, the Puri Police has implemented elaborate security arrangements across the city. Additional police personnel, lifeguards and volunteers have been deployed to regulate crowds and ensure smooth movement.

Authorities have appealed to devotees to cooperate with security personnel, follow traffic advisories and avoid overcrowding.

Visitors have also been advised to:

• Bathe only in designated safe zones along the beach.
• Keep children under constant supervision.
• Safeguard personal belongings.
• Stay hydrated by drinking sufficient water and wearing light clothing.
• Avoid entering deep or restricted sea areas.
• Refrain from consuming alcohol on the beach.
• Immediately report any suspicious activity or unattended objects to the police.

Locker Facilities and Emergency Assistance

To ensure the safety of pilgrims’ belongings, the Puri Police has arranged government-operated locker and deposit counters at several locations, including the Temple Office rear gate, North Gate, West Gate, South Gate, Surya Complex, Marichi Kote Square, Town Police Station and Market Square.

For emergency assistance, devotees can contact 112, the Tourist Helpline at 6370967100, or access support through the Puri Police WhatsApp Chatbot at 8763199400.

The authorities have urged all visitors to follow official advisories and cooperate fully to ensure a safe and peaceful celebration of one of Lord Jagannath’s most sacred annual festivals.