Puri, June 10: The holy town of Puri is gearing up for one of the most revered festivals in the Hindu calendar Snana Yatra, also known as Dev Snana Purnima, scheduled to be celebrated on 11th June 2025.
Observed annually on the full moon day of the month of Jyeshtha, the festival holds deep religious significance for Vaishnavites, the devotees of Lord Vishnu.
Snana Yatra marks the grand ceremonial bathing of the Chaturdha Murti, Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, sister Subhadra, and the divine Sudarshana Chakra.
The sacred ritual takes place at the Shree Jagannath Temple and draws thousands of pilgrims from across the country and abroad.
A tradition steeped in legend
The festival’s origin dates back to the 12th century, intertwined with fascinating legends. One such tale recalls a devout follower, Ganapati Bhatta, who expected to see Lord Jagannath in the form of Lord Ganesha. Disappointed upon seeing the deity, he decided to leave Puri. Moved by his pure devotion, it is believed that Lord Jagannath miraculously took on an elephant-faced form to fulfil the devotee’s wish. Since then, this day has been celebrated with reverence and joy.
Rituals and celebrations
The sacred bathing ceremony is the central highlight of Snana Yatra. The deities are ceremonially brought out from the sanctum sanctorum to the Snana Mandap (bathing altar), where they are bathed with 108 pots of sanctified water drawn from the Suna Kua (golden well) inside the temple complex.
Following the ritual bath, the deities are adorned in Hati Besha (elephant attire), offering devotees a rare and mesmerising sight. This specific form symbolises the divine and majestic presence of the Lords.
A festival for all
Snana Yatra is one of the very few occasions when the deities are visible to all, including non-Hindus and those not permitted within the inner sanctum of the temple. Thousands gather at the temple and its surroundings to witness this visual and spiritual treat.
Spiritual significance
The bathing ritual symbolises spiritual cleansing and rejuvenation, aligning with seasonal transitions. Post Snana Yatra, the deities are believed to fall ill due to the elaborate bathing and retreat into a period of seclusion known as Anasara. During this time, they remain hidden from public view until they reappear with renewed vitality during the Ratha Yatra.
Devotional journey
For pilgrims and spiritual seekers, visiting Puri during Snana Yatra offers a profound religious experience. The town transforms into a hub of devotion, chants, and colour, making it an unmissable occasion for anyone drawn to Jagannath culture and heritage.
With the rich blend of tradition, faith, and celebration, Snana Yatra continues to uphold the spiritual fabric of Odisha and draws millions into its sacred fold each year.
