Puri, Nov 4: Today marks the sacred occasion of Kartika Shukla Chaturdashi, an important day in the Odia religious calendar. On this auspicious day, the Laxmi Nrusingha Besha of Lord Jagannath is being celebrated with great devotion.

According to the Skanda Purana, it is believed that when King Indradyumna first visited the Ratnasimhasan to seek the divine darshan of Lord Jagannath, he witnessed the Lord in the form of Nrusingha, which is the primary reason for observing this avatar on the Chaturdashi of Kartika month.

In reverence to this divine memory, the Laxmi Nrusingha Besha of Lord Jagannath is being worshiped today.

The Srimandir has witnessed preparations, with priests and devotees working together to dress the deity in the sacred attire. After the afternoon rituals, the priests adorn Lord Jagannath in golden attire, with Lord's Shri Bhuja, Shri Payra, and Chakra in gold, and a silver conch in his hands, symbolizing his divine power and protection. Similarly, Lord Balabhadra is also adorned with the Shri Bhuja, Shri Payra, and Hala Musala, which are sacred symbols of his power and strength.

Both Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra wear golden headgear, called Kia Gudika and Aad Bagia, which are special decorations, signifying their regal and divine status.

This special attire is also referred to as Dalikia Besha.

Devotees are eagerly awaiting for tomorrow to witness the divine Suna Besha or Rajarajeshwar Besha of Lord Jagannath.