Argus News - No Public Darshan for Five Hours Today Due to Paita Lagi Niti at Puri Jagannath Temple

Puri, Nov 17: On the auspicious occasion of Margashira Krishna Trayodashi, the revered Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri will witness the sacred Paita Lagi Niti (ritual) of Lord Jagannath.

This unique and confidential ceremony, performed only twice a year, involves adorning the Lord’s divine body with a special silk garment (paita) prepared by the Patara Sevayats.

According to the temple administration, the ritual will commence after the completion of the second Bhoga Mandap offering.

Owing to the Paita Lagi Niti, public darshan has been suspended for five hours — from 5 PM to 10 PM on Monday — to maintain the sanctity of the ceremony. The ritual is conducted by the Daitapati Sevayats, who hold the responsibility of performing this age-old practice.

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The Paita Lagi Niti is considered highly significant in Shree Jagannath culture. It symbolizes the Lord’s adornment with fresh attire, reflecting purity and devotion. Following the ritual, the Maha Snana Niti (grand bathing ceremony) will be performed, after which devotees were once again allowed darshan of the deities.

This ritual is observed twice annually — once before Odhana Shasthi and again before the Chandan Yatra — in keeping with centuries-old tradition. The secrecy surrounding the ceremony adds to its spiritual aura, as only designated sevayats are permitted to participate.

Devotees, though temporarily deprived of darshan, expressed reverence for the ritual, acknowledging its importance in preserving Shree Jagannath Temple’s rich heritage.

The temple administration has ensured smooth arrangements, with announcements made in advance to inform pilgrims about the restricted hours.