Puri, June 6: The sacred ritual of Rukmani Harana Ekadasi is observed on the 11th day of the bright fortnight in the month of Jyestha, marking the joyous occasion of Lord Jagannath’s marriage to Goddess Rukmini. The festival celebrates the union of Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Krishna, with Rukmini, believed to be the incarnation of Goddess Lakshmi.
The mythological tale behind this celebration narrates the story of Rukmini, the princess of Vidharba, who wished to marry Lord Krishna. However, her brother Rukmi, a supporter of Kansa opposed the union. To enact the legendary elopement of the two lovers, the temple premises come alive on Rukmani Harana Ekadasi.
On this day, Lord Jagannath is dressed in Baula Pata and sends his representative, Madanmohan, to abduct Rukmini. Madanmohan stealthily kidnaps her from the Maa Bimala temple while she is praying. Shishupala, who had been promised to Rukmini, pursues them, and a dramatic battle ensues between Lord Jagannath and Shishupala. Ultimately, Lord Jagannath prevails, and preparations for the grand wedding of Lord Jagannath and Goddess Rukmini begin.
According to the sources, the Rukmani Vivah ceremony spans four days. The key roles in the wedding rituals are performed by Pati Mohapatra, Bittarachhu Mohapatra, and Puja Panda, servitors. Pati Mohapatra conducts the rites on behalf of Lord Jagannath, while Bittarachhu Mohapatra handles the rituals for Rukmini’s side. Meanwhile, Puja Panda servitors perform the essential marriage ceremonies. Mahajana servitors are responsible for preparing Lord Jagannath and Rukmini for the occasion and gathering all the materials needed for the wedding. The ceremony takes place under the supervision of Mudirasta, the representative of Gajapati Maharaja, on the first day.
On the second day, Gajapati Maharaja invites the newly-wedded couple, Madanamohan and Rukmini, to his palace in a grand procession. This event, known as ‘Guali,’ takes place on Champaka Dwadasi. The procession continues to Sri Jambeswar temple at Goudabada Sahi, Puri, where the five Pandavas' idols warmly welcome the newlyweds. During the procession, traditional Gotipua and Odissi dances are performed in honor of the divine couple.
After visiting Sri Nahara and the Jambeswar temple, the couple returns to the Srimandir and blesses the devotees from the Vivah Mandap on the third day. The festivities culminate with a Chaturthi Puja on the fourth day, marking the conclusion of the sacred marriage ceremonies.
