-: ll Niladri Mahodaya Ashtami ll :-

Today is the auspicious Vaishakha Shukla Paksha Ashtami Tithi, and this sacred day is known as Niladri Mahodaya Ashtami. It is described in the Bamadeva Samhita and Skanda Purana that on this day, Brahma himself performed the Pushyabhisheka or Jalabhisheka (water consecration) of Mahaprabhu. From time immemorial, Kaliya Saanta (Lord Jagannath) resides in the holy Purushottama Kshetra of Niladri Kandara (Puri) and participates in thirteen festivals in twelve months. Among the twelve Yatras (processions) and thirteen Parvas (festivals) observed in Srimandir, Niladri Mahodaya Ashtami is the thirteenth festival.

Today, after the completion of the Mangala Alati (morning salutation) in the early morning, the Nitya Abakasha (daily cleansing), Gopala Ballabha (morning offering), and Sakala Dhupa (morning offering) pujas are completed. Following this, the 108 pots of water, which were kept in confinement (Adhibasa) the previous day, are brought in four rows of four by the Garabadu Sevakas (water carrying servitors) with their mouths covered with cloth (Baghamuhan), escorted by Pratiharis (doorkeepers) and accompanied by the sounds of Ghanta (bells), Chhatra (umbrellas), Kahali (trumpets), and Tali Chhatas (small handheld umbrellas). Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana are symbolically bathed with 35, 33, 22, and 18 pots of water respectively, over a mirror. The Puja Panda (priest) purifies the water and performs the Jalalagi (offering of water). This Abhishek Niti (consecration ritual) is similar to the Pushyabhisheka Niti. After this, the Panda, Pati, and Mudirasta (chief servitors) bring sandalwood paste in three silver bowls, which is then purified on the Simhasana (sacred altar). The Chandan Sarvangikara (application of sandalwood paste all over the body) is performed along with the Pushtalaka (attendants).

Subsequently, Dhopakhala (washing and cleaning) is done, and the Jatrangi Bhoga (special offering) and Madhyahna Dhupa (afternoon offering) are brought to the Chhamu (in front of the deities). After this Dhupa is offered, the Dakshina Bhoga (southern offering) concludes, and Ramakrishna and Madanamohana are brought to the Simhasana. The Mudirasta offers the Prasadalagi (offering of sacred food). After the Puja Panda performs the Dhupa Manohi (offering of incense) with sixteen types of offerings, Pani Padi Dhopakhala (water pouring and washing) is done, and after the Bandapana (adoration) is performed in the three sections, the Puja Panda gives the Ajna Mala (divine garland), following which the deities proceed for the Chandan Yatra (sandalwood boat festival). This day is also celebrated as the annual festival of the temple. Since Vaishakha Shukla Paksha Ashtami Tithi is a sacred day, acts of charity and other pious deeds are performed on this day. 🙏❤️

Celebrate the sacred Niladri Mahodaya Ashtami! As Lord Jagannath receives the holy Jala Abhisheka and Chandan Lagi today at Srimandir, connect deeper with His divine grace. Bring home the blessings and spirit of Puri’s timeless rituals with authentic devotional items and Odia cultural treasures from JustKalinga.com.