Puri Sri Mandir to remain closed for 6 hrs for Banakalagi Rituals

Puri, May 8: Public will be barred from having darshan of Lord Jagannath and his siblings at Puri Srimandir for a period of six hours today for Banakalagi ritual, informed Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA).

The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has announced that darshan (worship) inside the temple premises will be suspended from 6 pm to 12 midnight to facilitate the performance of the Banakalagi ritual. This ceremonial event follows the Bhoga Mandap ritual, with Dutta Mohapatra and Khadiprasad Daitapati servitors overseeing its execution.

During the secretive Banakalagi Niti or Shrimukha Sringara ritual, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra within the sanctum sanctorum are adorned with fresh colors. 

Banakalagi ritual uses natural colors from herbs and various materials, including 'kasturi,' 'harital,' 'karpura,' 'kesar,' 'kalasankha,' and 'dhalasankha.' Typically performed 3 to 4 times a year, this special ritual holds immense significance within the temple's ceremonial calendar.

During the Banakalagi ritual period, public darshan will be temporarily halted, coinciding with the conclusion of the second Bhoga Mandap ritual and to offer devotees an opportunity to reflect on the spiritual significance of the Banakalagi ritual while reinforcing the sanctity and reverence associated with the Jagannath Temple's rituals and practices.