The Chandan Besha festival at the Jagannath Temple in Puri is a deeply significant and visually captivating ritual observed over a period of 42 days. It begins on the auspicious day of Akshaya Tritiya and continues until the full moon (Purnima) of the Jyestha month. This festival is an integral part of the broader Chandan Yatra, reflecting both devotion and seasonal tradition.

During this sacred period, the deities—Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra—along with other associated deities, are ceremonially adorned with sandalwood paste (chandan). This application of chandan serves both symbolic and practical purposes. Spiritually, it represents purity, devotion, and reverence, while practically it provides a cooling effect to the deities during the intense summer heat of Odisha. The fragrance and texture of sandalwood also enhance the divine aura of the rituals, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere for devotees.

The festival is divided into two distinct phases: Bahar Chandan and Bhitara Chandan, each lasting 21 days. In the Bahar Chandan phase, the deities are taken out in grand processions to the Narendra Tirtha tank, where they are placed on beautifully decorated boats for ceremonial rides known as “Chapa Khela.” This public celebration allows devotees to witness the deities outside the temple premises, fostering a sense of community participation and joy.

The Bhitara Chandan phase takes place within the temple premises, where rituals continue in a more intimate and traditional setting. Devotees offer prayers, witness the divine adornment, and participate in devotional activities.

Overall, the Chandan Besha festival is a harmonious blend of ritual, devotion, and cultural heritage, symbolizing care, love, and reverence for the deities during the summer season.