।। Champaka Dwadashi at Shrimandir ।।

Today, on Champaka Dwadashi (the 12th day of the bright fortnight of the month of Jyeshtha), the “Guali Shobhayatra” (a special procession) of the divine couple is organized at the Shrimandir by the servitors of the Chhatisha Nijog.

The divine couple, Lord Madanmohan and Goddess Shreedevi, embark on a city tour (Nagar Parikrama) and accept “Panti Bhoga” (offerings made along the way). Inside the temple, after the Sakala Dhupa (morning offering) and Bhogamandapa rituals, “Alata Lagi” (a fanning ritual) is performed, followed by the “Mahasnana” (grand bath). After this, the deities are adorned with new clothes (Nua Luga Lagi) and sandalwood paste (Chandan Lagi).

After the Madhyahna Dhupa (mid-day offering), the divine couple is escorted inside, where they receive a ceremonial welcome (Bandapana) and are given the “Agyamala” (garland of command). Lord Madanmohan and Shreedevi (Rukmini) are then placed in a palanquin located beneath the Jhulana Mandap. The procession circumambulates the Shrimandir, exits through the Singhadwara (Lion’s Gate), proceeds along the Badadanda (Grand Road) to the Shrinahara (the King’s Palace), where the deities are seated on a special cot (Khata). There, “Pithas” (traditional cakes) prepared by the Mahasuaras (temple cooks) are offered with “Panchopachara Puja” (five-item worship) and are partaken by the deities (Manohi).

The women of the Gajapati’s family welcome the Lord and Goddess at the Shrinahara with the Bandapana ritual and present offerings (Bheti). Following this, the deities are taken on the city tour by the “Barakanya” servitors (those representing the bride and groom’s party), during which they accept Panti Bhoga.

The procession of the deities leaves the temple and proceeds through Shrinahara, Balisahi, Jiyarswami Matha, Barahi Thakurani Temple, Hatamunda, and Harchandi Sahi to reach the Shri Jambeshwar Temple. There, a Bandapana ritual is performed along with an offering of “Panchugrasi Bhoga.” From there, the deities return to the Shrimandir (Bahuda Bije) via Manikarnika Sahi and the road in front of the Shri Kapalamochana Temple at Gandua Chaura.

“Celebrate the divine love on Champak Dwadashi! Today, Lord Madanmohan and Goddess Sridevi grace the streets of Puri in a magnificent procession, blessing devotees along their path. This beautiful Shobhajatra is a sight of pure devotion and splendour. Bring the vibrancy of this sacred festival into your home with our exclusive collection of Pattachitra art depicting the divine couple, elegant vastra for your deities, and authentic puja samagri, all available at JustKalinga.com.”