Puri, May 9: The annual Chandan Jatra of Lord Jagannath and other deities is being celebrated in Puri today, with the Bhauṇri Mahotsav as the main attraction.

Thousands of devotees and saints have gathered at Bada Danda to witness bhajans, kirtans, and musical performances during the procession. The deities, including Sri Ramakrishna, Madanmohan, Lakshmi Saraswati, and Panchamahadeva, will be taken to Narendra pond for the rituals.

According to the temple administration, the Jatra will follow strict religious protocols. The festivities will begin with Jatra Bhoga at 1 PM, followed by Chandan Bijay at 2 PM. At 2:30 PM, the deities will be placed in Narendra Abhimukha, the main event of the festival.

The festival will include rituals such as Jalalagi, Diya Chandan Kund worship, Sheetal Bhoga, Mandua Bhoga, Bidiya Manohi, and Bandapana. After the ceremonies, Madanmohan, Lakshmi Saraswati, and Ramakrishna will return to their shrines, while Panchamahadeva will resume his seat.

Devotees and saints attending the Jatra will receive blessings and experience the divine presence of Lord Jagannath, making it a spiritually enriching event.