Special rituals and religious ceremonies were observed at the Shree Jagannath Temple on Saturday on the occasion of Sabitri Amavasya, with married women offering prayers for the long life, prosperity and well-being of their husbands.
Devotees gathered at the temple since early morning to participate in the traditional observances associated with the auspicious occasion. Married women performed puja at the Sabitri temple using fruits, conch bangles, vermillion and other ritual offerings in a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
Jala Krida Ritual Performed Inside Srimandir
Alongside the Sabitri Amavasya rituals, the traditional Jala Krida ceremony was also conducted inside the Srimandir premises as part of the ongoing Bhitara Chandan Yatra rituals.
The ritual took place at the Jala Krida Mandap located within the inner enclosure of the temple. The Chalanti Pratima of the deities participate in the sacred water ritual on specific occasions including Jyestha Krushna Ekadashi, Jyestha Shukla Ekadashi, Sabitri Amavasya and Shitala Sashthi.
As part of the ceremonial proceedings, after the completion of Diba Alata Lagi, Chandan Lagi and Dakhini Ghara Bhoga rituals, Lord Madanmohan proceeded towards the Ratna Singhasan.
Subsequently, Lord Madanmohan and Goddess Sridevi received the sacred Agyanmala and were taken in a ceremonial procession to the Jala Krida Mandap. Mahajana servitors then placed the idols into the sacred water tank, while Mudirasta servitors offered prasad during the ritual.
Deities Adorned With Floral Decorations
Following the sprinkling of scented sandalwood water, several traditional rituals including Sitala Bhoga, Srianga Pocha and Mailama were performed.
The idols were later decorated in a special Besha adorned with flower garlands and traditional ornaments, adding to the devotional atmosphere inside the temple.
After the completion of the Jala Krida ritual, Goddess Sridevi returned to the Ratna Singhasan for further rituals, while Lord Madanmohan proceeded towards the Dakhini Ghara as per temple traditions.
The observance of Sabitri Amavasya at the Jagannath Temple continues to draw large numbers of devotees every year, reflecting Odisha’s rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
