Puri, Mar 30: Puri witnessed the traditional Yajna Raksha ceremony as part of the ongoing Sahi Jata, the city’s centuries-old Ram Lila festival at the Sri Mandir. The Harachandi Sahi enacted the dramatic episode of demons’ noses and ears being severed, while the Patua section featured Lord Shri Ram and Lakshman, along with Sage Vishwamitra. The procession from Harachandi Sahi eventually reached the Jagannath Ballav Math, where the Yajna Raksha ritual was formally concluded.

Following the Harachandi Sahi procession, the Patua section moved via Balisahi before arriving at the Math in Badadanda. Dancers performed the ceremonial Nose-and-Ear Dance to the rhythmic beats of the Veera-badya drums, coinciding with the presence of the moving idol of Lord Jagannath. The ritual successfully recreated the Yajna Raksha of Shri Ram Lila, a symbolic representation of the Tretaya Yuga events when sages’ yajnas were threatened by demons.

According to tradition, Lord Shri Ram, along with Lakshman and Sage Vishwamitra, ventured into the forest to defeat Subahu and Maricha, thereby protecting the sacred rituals. The severing of the demons’ noses and ears is said to have inspired their names in folklore.

The Harachandi Sahi, under the supervision of President Jayant Shadangi, Editor Narayan Mahasuara, Cultural Editor Bipin Patri, along with local organisers and Sahi Jatra enthusiasts, successfully concluded the festival segment. Thousands of spectators immersed themselves in the cultural spectacle, enjoying the vibrant performances and the traditional spirit of Sahi Jata.