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Showing posts from August, 2023

Gamha Purnima in Odisha

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Gamha Purnima, also known as Gamha Diwasa or the "Festival of the Cows," is a traditional Hindu festival celebrated primarily in the Indian state of Odisha. It is dedicated to honoring and showing gratitude to cows, which are considered sacred animals in Hinduism. The festival usually falls on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Odia month of Bhadraba, which corresponds to the months of August or September in the Gregorian calendar. During Gamha Purnima, cows are bathed, adorned with colorful decorations, and worshipped by farmers and villagers. This festival holds great significance in rural areas where agriculture and animal husbandry are important parts of the economy and culture. The rituals and celebrations during Gamha Purnima may vary from region to region within Odisha, but some common practices include: Cattle Worship: Cows, along with their calves and bulls, are bathed and decorated with vermillion, turmeric paste, and colorful cloths. They are then worshipped and o

The Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival

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The Rath Yatra, also known as the Chariot Festival, is an annual Hindu festival held in the city of Puri, Odisha, India. The festival is held at the Sri Jagannath Temple, one of the four major pilgrimage sites for Hindus in India, known as the Char Dham. During the Rath Yatra, the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken out in a procession on giant, ornately decorated chariots. The chariots are pulled through the streets of Puri by devotees, who sing and dance along the way. The festival is a grand spectacle and attracts millions of devotees from all over the world. The Rath Yatra has a long and rich history, with the first recorded Rath Yatra taking place in the 12th century. The festival is believed to have originated as a way to bring the deities out of the temple and closer to the people, so that all could have the opportunity to seek their blessings. The Rath Yatra is a major event in the Hindu calendar and is an important part of the cultural and religious tradition

Puri Panda is a hereditary title held by the chief priests of the Sri Jagannath Temple

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Puri Panda is a hereditary title held by the chief priests of the Sri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, India. The Panda family has been performing the rituals and puja (worship) at the temple for generations, and the title of Puri Panda is passed down from father to son within the family. The Puri Panda is responsible for the daily puja rituals at the temple and for the maintenance of the temple's rituals and traditions. He is also responsible for the maintenance of the temple's records and for the management of the temple's assets. The Puri Panda is an important figure in the Hindu community and is highly respected for his knowledge of the scriptures and his devotion to the deity Jagannath. He is also a popular figure among tourists and devotees who visit the temple, and many people seek his blessings and guidance during their visit to the temple. The Puri Panda holds a prestigious position within the temple and is an important part of the temple's history and traditi

Jagannath Darshan

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Darshan of Shree Jagannatha Mahaprabhu is available almost all day, from early morning until late at night. In general, the temple opens and darshan begins around 5.30 a.m. After the perpetual lamp (Mangal Arati) is offered, devotees are allowed entry up to Jagamohan (Bhitar Kaatha) of the temple, and darshan is available from this point until the completion of “Besha” (approximately 7.30 / 8 A.M.). Darshan of Shree Jagannatha Mahaprabhu is not available for 1 hour and 15 minutes after completion of Besha (roughly from 8 a.m. to 9.15 a.m.), i.e. for Gopal Ballava Puja. Devotees can receive darshan from Naatamandir (Baahaar Kaatha) following Gopal Ballav Puja until Sakaala Dhoopa Puja is finished (approximately up to 11 A.M.). Devotees are permitted admission up to Jagamohan until “Bhoga Mandap Puja” is completed following the conclusion of Sakaal Dhoopa (approximately up to 1 P.M.). Between the hours of two and five thirty, darshan is also offered close to Bhitar Kaath / Jagamohan, tha

Chappan Bhog

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Not all Indian festivals involve only fasting and a vow of quiet (maun vrat). The other variety also exists, some of which also involve heavenly dining. One of them is the annual Jagannath Rath Yatra that takes place in the state of Odisha at Puri. If you've ever thought that a feast is only about deep-fried foods, hot curries, and plates full of meat dishes, you're dead wrong. There is much more to the Rath Yatra festival than merely the gastronomic treats we enjoy today. What is Chappan Bhog?   The 56 different food dishes that were presented to the lotus-eyed lord, Lord Jagannath, are known as "Chhappan Bhog." The food/offering to the god is known as bhog. This daily sacrifice to Lord Jagannath at the Shri Jagannath Temple consists of 56 different foods. In the Sri Mandir, the Bhog/Naivedya is first offered to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra before being presented to Maa Bimala. What is left over after the Nivedana has been accepted by the God

Temples Inside Jagannath Puri

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  Temple / Bijesthali Gods / Goddesses Garbhagruha Shree Balabhadra, Shree Jagannatha, Devi Subhadra, Shree Sudarshana, Bhudevi, Shreedevi and Madhava. Bhandara Ghara Lokanath (Bije Pratima), Pahuda Sayana Thakura and Durga. Thakura Sayana Ghara Sayana Thakura, Thakurani (3 images). Jagamohana Garuda Stambha, Charcha Ganesha, Khamba Gayatri, Khamba Nrusimha, Khamba Dakshina Kali, Khamba Sheetala, Chakra Narayana, Khamba Vimala, Sugreeba, Bibhisana, Mangala, Chaitanya, ShreeKrushna, Mahaveera, Panchamukhi Mahaveera (Hanuman). Bhogamandapa Ganesha, Bramha, Mahadeva, Kalika, Nrusimha. Bata Balabhdra Balabhadra or Balarama. Indrani Deula Indrani Thakurani. Patitapabana (Purana Panda Ghara) Patitapabana (Jagannatha). Majana Mandapa (Marriage Platform) Dakshina Ghara (Bije Pratima Ghara) The moving images of Rama, Lakshmana, Seeta and Hanumana, Fixed images of Rama, Krushna, Narayana, the moving images of Narayana, Ram, Krushna, Madanamohana, Dolagovinda, the fixed images of Badrinarayana, L

Places To Visit In Puri

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Puri, located in the state of Odisha in India, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and cultural attractions. Some of the top tourist destinations in Puri include: Puri Beach: This beautiful beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and watching the sunset. Shree Jagannatha Temple: This ancient temple is one of the four holiest Hindu pilgrimage sites in India, and is a must-see for any visitor to Puri. Konark Sun Temple: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 13th-century temple dedicated to the sun god Surya, and is famous for its intricate carvings and massive size. Raghurajpur Heritage Village: This historic village is known for its traditional houses, crafts, and cultural heritage. Chilika Lake: This large brackish water lake is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including a number of migratory birds. It is a popular spot for birdwatching and boat rides. Puri Beach Market: This bustling market is a great place to shop for souvenirs and try local

Religious Places of Attraction in Puri

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The spiritual centre of Odisha is Puri, which is renowned for its piety and abundance of notable temples, shrines, mathas, ashrams, natural wonders, beaches, architectural beauty, and other attractions that draw tourists from all over the world. Hinduism counts Puri as one of its four holies, and any pilgrimage journey is not considered complete without paying a final visit to the temple in Puri. It is considered a crucial spiritual location for obtaining salvation. Numerous globetrotters, honeymooners, leisure travellers, and nature enthusiasts travel to the city. Ancient temples, well-known shrines, and a magnificent beach culture make Puri one of the most popular tourist destinations in Odisha and the location of some of the best resorts and hotels. Both leisure and business travellers can stay in the premium hotels. Religious Places of Attraction in Puri The main religious attraction in Puri, aside from the tourist attractions, is the Jagannath temple, which was constructed in the

The "Mahaprasad"

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The "Mahaprasad" refers to the sacred food offered to Lord Jagannath in the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, India. It is considered highly auspicious and is part of the temple rituals and traditions. The Mahaprasad includes a variety of dishes and sweets that are prepared with great devotion and care. The specific recipes for the Mahaprasad are closely guarded secrets of the temple and its cooks, passed down through generations. However, I can provide you with a general idea of some of the dishes that are typically included in the Mahaprasad: Dalma : A lentil and vegetable stew cooked with spices and often includes pumpkin, plantains, and other vegetables. Pakhala : Fermented rice soaked in water and served with various accompaniments like green chili, fried fish, and curd. It's a traditional way of consuming rice in Odisha. Khichdi : A dish made from rice and lentils, often flavored with ghee and mild spices. Saga Bhaja : Leafy greens like spinach or mustard greens are