Embracing the New: Nabaanka Besha and the Sacred Nabaanka Bedha at Shri Jagannath Temple

 

The Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri, with its myriad of traditions and festivals, offers devotees countless opportunities to connect with the divine. The Nabaanka Besha and Nabaanka Bedha are particularly significant, taking place on the day before Makar Sankranti. This day highlights the idea of new beginnings and the timeless nature of devotion. Let’s explore the history and symbolism associated with this unique observance.

Nabaanka Besha: Adorning the Deities in New Attire

The text mentions that every year on Masanta (the last day of the month before Makar Sankranti) the Nabaanka Besha is observed, along with the Chaula Melana and Phula Melana festivals. The deities are adorned for the evening Aarati Besha, where the khuntia and pushpalaka servitors adorn them with new mala chula (flower crowns and garlands).

Following this, the deities are dressed in their Bada Singhar Besha, where the Chaturdha Murti (the four deities) are adorned with ornaments made of sola (a type of spongy plant material), jari (gold thread), and kaintha atha (wood apple gum). Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra are adorned with makara kundala (crocodile-shaped earrings) and shankha chakra hala mushala (conch, disc, plow, and pestle).

These intricate adornments and special attire signify the anticipation of new beginnings, and the celebration of Lord Jagannath’s eternal presence. This special attire is known as the Nabaanka Besha. It is mentioned that traditionally the dakshina parshwa math (Shri Rama Das Math) would provide the besha materials, but now that has been taken over by the temple administration.

The Phula Melana: An Offering of Flowers

On this day, the Mali servitors, with covered faces, carry water pots, garlands, and chulas, going in a procession around the temple with the sounds of bells, umbrellas, and kahali. These offerings are given to the Palia servitors, who then adorn the deities for the evening aarti. The Bada Odia Math prepares the Gendu flower decorations for this besha.

The Significance of the Nabaanka Bedha

The Niladri Mahodaya mentions the spiritual importance of the Nabaanka Bedha, saying:

“Etat navaanka bhramane prathama bhramanam cha ya,
pashyet panch mahapaapat pramukto syann sanshaya.”

This translates to:

“Those who see the first circumambulation during the Nabaanka Bedha, are freed from the five major sins, without a doubt.”

The text goes on to say that the Nabaanka Bedha of the deities is a special circumambulation, because it highlights the eighteen marks on Lord Krishna’s feet. It is believed that these marks are replicated in the bodies of those who witness the Nabaanka Bedha. This is why this ritual is called Nabaanka Bedha as it renews the divine presence in the devotees.

The Procession and Its Significance

The text further states that when the deities are taken around the temple in a procession:

• Those who do so are freed from sins, and those who behold it also get rid of their sins.

• Those who perform this bhramana (circumambulation) attain the fruits of all sacrifices.

• Those who see the deities during the circumambulation attain happiness and prosperity.

• They also help their ancestors attain salvation.

This highlights the spiritual power and benefit of participating in the Nabaanka Bedha. It is an act of devotion and faith that has the power to transform the lives of both devotees and their ancestors.

Specific Practices of the Nabaanka Bedha

• Adhibasa: On the eve of Nabaanka, the Bhog Mandap is cleaned and decorated. Earthen pots containing water and ghee are kept and then consecrated with flowers and sandalwood.

• Melaani: On the day of the Nabaanka, after the evening aarti, the Chaula Melana ritual is held, where rice is carried in a procession around the temple.

• Brahmana’s Recitation: The Brahmin priests recite specific verses and mantras, along with the procession.

• Madanmohan’s Visit: Lord Madanmohan is brought from the Dakshini Ghar (south wing) to the Ratna Singhasana.

• Procession with the Deities: The deities are taken on a procession around the temple premises, accompanied by the sounds of traditional instruments.

• Panti Bhoga: Finally, a special panti bhog is offered, and then Lord Madanmohan is returned to the Dakshini Ghar.

Bringing the Tradition Home

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Jai jagannath 😊🙏