Daily Rituals of Jagannath Temple

Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath, the presiding deity of the Jagannath Temple, is a uniquely humanized God. His daily rituals mirror the everyday life of a common man, blurring the lines between the divine and the human. Just like us, he brushes his teeth, bathes, dresses in colorful attire, enjoys a variety of 56 food items, and rests after a light night meal. This humanization has given rise to unique rituals that form the core of his cult.

The day begins with Dwarfita and Mangal Arati, the ceremonial opening of the temple doors and the morning offering. The doors are opened at 5 AM, or earlier during specific periods like Aswina Ekadasi to Kartik Purnima and Dhanu Sankranti to Makar Sankranti, when it happens between 2 and 3 AM. Five Sevayats – Bhitarchu Mahapatra, Pratihari, Muduli, Akhanda Mekap, and Palia Mekap – are essential for this ritual. After the seal on the padlock is checked, the Jay-Vijay Dwar and then the Kalahat Dwar are opened.

Mangal Arati, the morning Aratrikam, is performed by Bhitarchu Mahapatra for Jagannath, and two Puspalakas for Balabhadra and Subhadra. It involves a Karpur Alati (camphor offering), followed by lighting a lamp with 21 wicks and then Pistak Alati. The ashes are distributed as Prasad. Twelve Sevayats are involved in this sacred ritual. Pilgrims can witness this beautiful ceremony from just in front of the Bhitar Kath Argali. These daily rituals reflect the deep devotion and intricate traditions that make the Jagannath cult so captivating.