Puri, September 3: Sri Krishna Janmashtami will be observed at the Srimandir in Puri on Friday as per the traditional rituals of the temple. Preparatory rituals for the birth of Lord Krishna will be performed on Thursday.
As per Srimandir tradition, Lord Jagannath will be worshipped in the form of Maa Devaki, who is believed to give birth to Sri Krishna. On the occasion, Jeuta Bhoga will be offered to Lord Jagannath to provide relief from the pain of childbirth. The Garbhodaka Bandapana ritual will also be performed.
For the Janmashtami rituals, two sets each of iron fetters (Bedi), conch shells (Shamuka) and knives have been prepared. Jagannath Maharana, the chief blacksmith servitor of the temple, has traditionally been entrusted with making these items. The ritual objects were prepared at the forge at his residence following prescribed purification rituals.
These iron implements are essential for the Sri Krishna birth ceremony. The fetters will be tied to Vasudeva’s feet, while the knife and conch shell will be used during the birth rituals. The items will be handed over to the Srimandir administration ahead of Janmashtami.
Maharana said the service of preparing these ritual implements has been carried out by his family for generations.
Sri Krishna Leela to begin with Nandotsav
The celebrations will continue with Nandotsav on September 5, a day after Janmashtami. According to the preliminary schedule, various Sri Krishna Leela rituals will be observed through September 26.
On September 6, rituals including Bana Bhoji, Koli Bika, Bakasura and Arghasura Badh will be observed. Kaliya Dalan and Dhenukasura Badh will be held on September 7, followed by Pralambasura Badh and related rituals on September 8.
The Krishna-Balaram Besha and Annapantha rituals are scheduled for September 9. Davagni Leela will be observed on September 12, followed by Nikunj Leela on September 13.
The schedule further includes Andha Leela on September 15, Daha Leela on September 16, Bimbasura Badh on September 17, and Kekesi Badh and Bastraharana on September 18.
The celebrations will culminate with Mathura Haat and Kansa Badh on September 21, followed by the Indrahati ritual on September 26, according to the preliminary programme.
