Puri, May 28: Devotees visiting the revered Jagannath Temple in Puri on May 28 (Wednesday) will face a temporary restriction on darshan for four hours.

The closure, scheduled from 7 PM to 11 PM, is due to the sacred Banakalagi Niti (a ritual) performed for Lord Jagannath and the divine deities.

Significance of Banakalagi Niti

The holy ritual is a significant tradition in which priests apply natural colours to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra's idols. This ritual symbolises the renewal and beautification of the deities, ensuring they remain vibrant and spiritually rejuvenated. It is performed on Jyestha Shukla Pratipada, an auspicious day in the Hindu calendar.

Darshan Restrictions During Rituals

During Banakalagi Niti, after the completion of Dwitiya Bhoga Mandap Bhog, the temple authorities restrict public darshan to preserve the sanctity of the ritual. Devotees eager to catch a glimpse of the deities will have to wait until normal darshan resumes after 11 PM.

Expectations for Visitors

Pilgrims and devotees planning to visit the temple are advised to schedule their darshan accordingly. The administration has urged devotees to respect the tradition and cooperate with temple authorities for a smooth ritual process.

For devotees and visitors, this temporary restriction is a reminder of the deep-rooted traditions that make the Jagannath Temple a sacred space of devotion and spiritual significance.

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