MAHAPRAVU-MAHAPRASAD

The Divine Transformation of Mahaprasad

At the Jagannath Temple in Puri, ordinary rice undergoes a remarkable transformation, becoming the divine Mahaprasad. This journey, from “Annah” (food) to “Parambrahma” (the ultimate reality), is a testament to the temple’s unique spiritual significance.

Stages of Transformation:

1. Amoniha: Ordinary rice brought into the temple is known as “Amoniha,” meaning “not offered.”
2. Annah: Upon reaching the Rosaghara (temple kitchen), the rice is purified and cooked, becoming “Annah.”
3. Chheka: As the cooked rice is carried towards the deities, it is called “Chheka.”
4. Bhoga: Offered to Mahaprabhu Jagannath, it transforms into “Bhoga” (divine offering).
5. Naivedya: Placed on the “Muruja” (sacred diagram) before the deity, it becomes “Naivedya.”
6. Prasad: After being offered with sacred mantras by the priests, it is sanctified as “Prasad.”
7. Shree Mahaprasad: Further sanctified through a special ritual called “Bharavi Chakra,” it becomes “Shree Mahaprasad,” the ultimate form of sanctified food.

The Journey Continues:

The Mahaprasad is then offered to Maa Vimala, another deity within the temple complex. When devotees partake in this divine food, it is believed to lead them towards spiritual liberation (“Kaibalya”) and ultimately to union with the divine (“Abhada”).