The Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri is observing the sacred Pausha Purnima on Saturday with the elaborate performance of the Suna Besha of the Holy Trinity, one of the most revered rituals in the annual temple calendar. The occasion has drawn widespread attention from devotees across the state, as Lord Jagannath, along with Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra, is adorned in resplendent gold ornaments atop the Ratna Singhasan.
On Pausha Purnima, the Pushyabhisheka ritual of Lord Jagannath is performed strictly in accordance with age-old temple traditions. As part of the ritual proceedings, 108 pots filled with sanctified water mixed with ghee—kept in the Adhibasa Griha since Friday—are ceremonially consecrated with sandalwood paste. These sacred pots are then used for the Abhisheka of Lord Jagannath, marking a significant spiritual moment for devotees. Following the Abhisheka, the regular sequence of daily rituals continues smoothly under the supervision of the temple servitors.
Sridevi’s Ritual Observances
A key highlight of the Pausha Purnima rituals is the ceremonial movement of Maa Lakshmi. After receiving the Agyanmala from Lord Jagannath, Maa Lakshmi proceeds in her Sridevi palanquin to the Jagamohan. There, important rituals such as Majana (ceremonial bathing) and Banaka Lagi (decorative rituals) are conducted. Upon completion of these rites, Sridevi is adorned in Suna Besha, adding to the spiritual grandeur of the day.
Suna Besha on Ratna Singhasan
The Suna Besha of Lord Jagannath is subsequently performed on the Ratna Singhasan after the completion of Sakala Dhupa rituals. Lord Jagannath adorns Suna Besha five times a year. Of these, four occasions—Pausha Purnima, Phalguna Purnima, Kartika Purnima and Vijaya Dashami—are observed on the Ratna Singhasan inside the sanctum. The fifth instance takes place on Hari Sayana Ekadashi, when the deity gives darshan in Suna Besha on the chariot.
On Pausha Purnima, the besha is known as Rajarajeshwara Besha, symbolising the supreme royal form of Lord Jagannath. Thousands of devotees eagerly await darshan on this auspicious day, considering it highly meritorious.
Gold Adornments and Divine Darshan
During Suna Besha, Lord Jagannath is adorned with exquisite gold ornaments including the Kirita (golden crown), Sripayara (golden feet), Sribhuja (golden arms), Harida Mala, Bahada Mala, and several other sacred gold embellishments. The magnificent decoration reflects centuries-old traditions of the 12th-century shrine and offers devotees a rare and divine visual experience.
Temple authorities have ensured that all rituals are conducted smoothly while maintaining discipline and order for devotees visiting the Srimandir on this auspicious occasion.
