Puri, Oct 31: On the auspicious occasion of Kartika Shukla Paksha Anla Navami, also known as Dhatri Navami, thousands of devotees thronged the historic Sakhigopal temple in Puri district to witness the sacred Radha Pada Darshan. The day holds immense religious significance, as it is believed that a glimpse of Shree Radha’s feet on this day grants divine blessings and spiritual purification.

According to temple tradition, Shree Radha is adorned in a beautiful Odia attire for this special occasion. Devotees believe that merely remembering her name absolves one of sins, and witnessing her feet on Anla Navami brings prosperity and peace. Her sacred feet, usually covered throughout the year, are unveiled to the public only once annually on this day.

The temple premises witnessed heavy footfall from midnight as devotees gathered in long queues for the early morning rituals. The temple doors were opened at 1 a.m. for Dwara Puja, followed by Mangala Aarti and other religious ceremonies. After the midnight rituals, a series of offerings including Surya Puja, Balabhog, Sakala Dhoopa, Bala Dhoopa, and Madan Mohan Bhoga were performed. The public darshan began around 5 a.m., drawing thousands of worshippers eager to seek the divine blessings of Shree Radha.

To ensure the safety of devotees, Puri police have implemented extensive security measures in and around the temple. CCTV cameras have been installed at key points to monitor the crowd and prevent any untoward incidents. Special parking arrangements have been made to manage the heavy inflow of vehicles those coming from Puri are directed to park near the Sakhigopal station area via Mahamaya Sahi, while vehicles arriving from Bhubaneswar are routed through the College Bypass Road to park near the Kot Upara area.

The Sakshi Gopal temple and its surroundings have been beautifully illuminated for the occasion. Colorful lights adorn the Singhadwara, Bakula Ban, Panchasakha Samadhi Pitha, College Square, temple bypass road, and the Sakshi Gopal market area, adding to the festive atmosphere.

The Sevayat Sangha has released a detailed ritual schedule for Anla Navami, ensuring that all religious procedures are conducted in accordance with temple traditions.

Anla Navami holds a special place in the hearts of Odias, symbolizing devotion, purity, and spiritual renewal. For many, witnessing Shree Radha pada is not just a ritual but a deeply emotional and divine experience that reaffirms their faith and connection with the goddess.