Devotees gather at temples in numbers to witness Debasnan Purnima in state
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The ceremonial bathing marked the beginning of the Lord's Anasara period, a 15-day phase of seclusion during which it is believed that the deity falls mildly ill from excessive ritualistic bathing.
For nearly two hours, devotees performed Jalabhishek of Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, using 51 earthen pots each, filled with sacred water blended with curd, milk, ghee, turmeric, rose water, flowers, and ashwagandha.
The rituals were followed by Mangal Aarti, recitation of the Bhagavad Gita, and offering of Malpua bhog.
Thakur Sudhansu Nath Shahdeo, chief priest of the Jagannathpur temple, said, "The Snan Yatra is not just symbolic, it reflects our devotion. After this ritual, the Lord is believed to catch a fever, and hence we place him in the Garud Kaksh for rest."
During the 15-day Anasara, the idols remain out of public view until Netra Daan (renewal of divine sight) on June 26, followed by the grand Rath Yatra on June 27, when the deities will be taken out in a majestic chariot procession.
This year's rath (chariot) is being constructed using three kinds of wood: mango, sal, and jamun, with steel reinforcements for added strength. Last year's Rath Yatra generated Rs 1.97 crore, and temple authorities expect higher participation and revenue this time.
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