Puri, Nov 2: The sacred Panchuka rituals, one of the most significant rituals observed at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri, commenced with great devotion today. The five-day ritual spans from ‘Kartika Shukla Ekadashi’ to the ‘Kartika Purnima’, marking a time when thousands of devotees from across the country and beyond gather to participate in this spiritual observance.
The Panchuka is known for its deep spiritual significance and is observed during the last five days of Kartika month, a time considered highly auspicious in the Hindu calendar. This year, the festival will be observed from Kartika Ekadashi (November 2) to Kartika Purnima (November 6).
The festival is also commonly referred to as Mahapanchuka, Baka Panchuka, or Bhisma Panchuka and is considered a major occasion for purification, penance, and prayer.
Importance of ‘Panchuka’
During the five days of Panchuka, devotees traditionally refrain from consuming non-vegetarian food and follow strict vegetarian and sattvic (pure) dietary rules. They observe the rituals by offering prayers, performing tarpan (ritualistic water offerings), and chanting sacred mantras. Many people also take part in fasting, donating food and resources to the needy, and engaging in acts of charity, all in honor of Lord Vishnu.
In addition to fasting and prayers, the Panchuka period also witnesses the offering of tulasi (holy basil) leaves and prayers dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Devotees believe that during this time, the 33 crore deities are said to be closer to the human realm, and the power of prayers and rituals is believed to be at its peak. Special prayers for childbirth and prosperity are especially significant during this period, as it is believed that the observance of Bhisma Panchuka helps devotees attain spiritual merit and blessings from the divine.
A Sacred Moment in History
The origins of Bhisma Panchuka are rooted in ancient lore. It is said that during the epic Mahabharata, Bhisma Pitamaha, lying on the bed of arrows, imparted profound knowledge on Rajadharma (royal duties), Moksha Dharma (path to liberation), and Dana Dharma (the virtue of charity). His teachings were listened to by the Pandavas, as well as by Lord Krishna. On hearing this divine wisdom, Lord Krishna proclaimed that those who offer water in the form of tarpan during Panchuka will receive his divine blessings and be blessed with spiritual fulfillment.
Special Deity Decorations
One of the most remarkable aspects of Panchuka is the decoration of the deities at the Jagannath Temple. During the five days, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are adorned in different costumes representing various forms of the deities. For example:
Devotees flood the temple during these days to witness the magnificent decorations and offer their prayers. The temple premises are beautifully decorated with lights, flowers, and sacred offerings, with an atmosphere of deep spirituality enveloping the region.
