Puri, March 30: The ‘Banabasa Niti’ of Lord Ram will be observed with traditional fervour on Monday as part of the ongoing 'Sahi Jata' in Puri. The ritual symbolises Lord Ram’s exile to the forest in adherence to his father’s promise, adding a solemn tone to the festivities.

As per tradition, villagers will make emotional appeals requesting Lord Ram not to leave for exile. However, depicting the Ramayana episode, Lord Ram, along with Sita and Lakshman, will proceed for the Banabasa.

The ritual will be held at Jagannath Ballav Math on the Dwadasi tithi of the bright fortnight of Chaitra month, under the aegis of Markandeswar Sahi as part of Ramleela celebrations linked to the Shri Jagannath Temple.

A grand procession featuring mythological characters such as Lord Ram, Lakshman, Sita and sage Vashistha will begin from Bhagabati Kote near Markandeswar Sahi Akhada. The procession will visit the Shri Jagannath Temple, perform rituals, and later move around the city.

As per temple traditions, after the evening ‘Dhupa’ ritual, the deities will receive ‘Agyan Mala’ and proceed in a ceremonial procession with traditional musical accompaniment to Jagannath Ballav Math. The ‘Vanabasa Leela’ will then be enacted by the residents of Markandeswar Sahi.

Following the offering of ‘Sheetal Bhog’, the deities will return to the temple.

Sources said that while the Sahi Yatra earlier continued for two days and covered multiple localities, it is now mainly confined to Markandeswar Sahi and areas around the temple. Members from eight ‘Melas’ will also participate, showcasing traditional performances like Naga and Medha, and will take out processions around the temple and adjoining areas.