NABAAKALEBARA

Nabakalebara: The Divine Rebirth

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is home to a unique ritual known as Nabakalebara, a sacred renewal of the deities. This intricate ceremony involves replacing the old wooden forms of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshan with new ones, symbolizing rebirth and continuity.

The Quest for Sacred Wood

Nabakalebara, meaning “new body,” occurs when the month of Ashadha (June-July) is repeated in the Hindu calendar. This can happen every 8 to 19 years. The process begins with a search for specific neem trees (Daru Brahma) that meet strict criteria. A team of priests and carpenters embarks on this quest, seeking divine guidance from Maa Mangala at Kakatpur.

Crafting the New Forms

Once the sacred trees are located, they are felled and transported to the temple. Skilled carpenters, known as Biswakarma, carve the new deities under the supervision of Daitapatis (temple priests). This takes place in Koili Baikuntha, a sacred enclosure within the temple.

Transferring the Divine Essence

The most mysterious aspect of Nabakalebara is the transfer of the “Brahma,” the life essence, from the old deities to the new ones. This secret ritual is performed by the Daitapatis, ensuring the continuity of divine presence. The old deities are then respectfully laid to rest in Koili Baikuntha.

A Symbol of Renewal

Nabakalebara is a profound reminder of the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth. It signifies the eternal nature of the divine and the continuous renewal of faith.

Witness the Sacred Ritual

Experiencing Nabakalebara is a rare and spiritually significant event. If you have the opportunity, witness this sacred ceremony and feel the powerful energy of renewal and devotion that permeates the Jagannath Temple.