Blossoms of Devotion: The Phula Melana Ritual at Shri Jagannath Temple

The Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri is a place where devotion and beauty intertwine seamlessly. One such expression of this divine blend is the Phula Melana (flower gathering) ritual, a cherished tradition held on the sacred Pausha Purnima or the eve of Makar Sankranti (also known as Nabaanka Besha). During this time, the deities are adorned with exquisite floral arrangements, a tribute to their divine presence. Let’s explore this fragrant celebration and its significance.

The Significance of Phula Melana

The text explains that the Phula Melana (also sometimes spelled as Phula Mela or Phula Melana) takes place on the day of Pushya Purnima, which is the full moon day in Pausha month or the day before Makar Sankranti, when Lord Jagannath and his siblings are adorned with a special floral attire called Nabaanka Besha.

This ritual signifies the love and respect that devotees have for the deities, while also showcasing the creative artistry of floral decorations.

The Ritual of the Phula Melana

• Procession: The Mali sevakas (gardener servitors) of the Shri Mandir, with their faces covered, carry jalkabaras (water vessels), malas (garlands), and chulas (floral crowns) in a procession, while bells, umbrellas, and kahali horns play the sacred music. They perform a single circumambulation around the Bada Deula (main temple).

• Floral Adornment: After the procession, the Khuntia servitors bring the garlands to the Ratna Singhasana and adorn the deities, as the Sandhya Aarti (evening prayers) takes place.

• Nabaanka Besha: It is on this day that the deities don the Bada Singhar Besha, which includes the Nabaanka Besha— made with sola, jari (gold thread), and kaintha atha (wood apple gum) and makara kundala (crocodile-shaped earrings), tadagi (armlets) and other such embellishments.

This ritual is a vibrant display of artistry and devotion, celebrating the deities with the beauty of nature and the skill of human hands.

A Tribute to Nature and the Divine

The Phula Melana is not merely an offering of flowers, but a symbolic expression of devotion and gratitude. It celebrates the beauty of nature and the divine harmony that exists in all aspects of creation. It signifies the transformation of earthly elements into offerings worthy of the gods.

Bringing the Spirit of Devotion Home

If you are touched by the beauty and devotion of the Phula Melana ritual, explore the handcrafted items at justkalinga.com. With worldwide shipping, you can bring a piece of this vibrant tradition and its spiritual energy into your own home.

Jai jagannath 😊🙏