Puri, Jun 24: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Puri on Wednesday announced that public darshan at the 12th‑century shrine will remain temporarily suspended on Thursday, June 25, 2026, between 1 PM and 6 PM. The decision comes in view of the observance of Rukmini Haran and Bibaha Utsav rituals, which fall on Jyestha Purnima Shukla Ekadashi Tithi.

According to the temple administration, darshan will be halted after the completion of the First Bhog Mandap offering to facilitate the smooth conduct of the special rituals. The SJTA made the announcement via its official social media handle, urging devotees to plan their visit accordingly.

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The Rukmini Haran and Bibaha Utsav are significant rituals in the Jagannath tradition, symbolising divine episodes associated with Lord Krishna and Goddess Rukmini. These ceremonies are performed annually and draw large numbers of devotees and scholars interested in the temple’s rich cultural heritage.

Officials said the suspension of darshan is a routine measure taken during major rituals to ensure sanctity and proper management inside the sanctum. Normal darshan will resume after 6 PM.

The announcement comes at a time when Puri is witnessing heightened religious activity in the run‑up to the Snana Purnima and Rath Yatra, two of the most important festivals in the Jagannath culture.

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Meanwhile, the Anukula Puja, the festival of the main deities ascending the three chariots along with the Pahandi and Khapuri has concluded today amid chants and devotion. The ceremonial proceedings mark the formal readiness of the chariots for the world‑famous annual Rath Yatra, which draws lakhs of devotees from across the globe.