The Procession of Lord Jagannath:

Malika baharile malikaninku dhari dia haribola…..

On the twelfth day of the bright fortnight of the Vaishakha month, the Chhampaka Dwadashi ritual is observed in the temple premises. According to tradition, the day after the Rukmini marriage, the grand procession (Guali Utsava) of Lord Jagannath is organized. On this day, after the Dhup (noon) and Bhoga Mandapa (offering) rituals are completed in the morning, the inner sanctum is lit up. Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are bathed in three vessels and adorned with new clothes.

The Chhatuarari Chandan (sandalwood paste) is applied from door to door, and the puja panda (ceremonial chariot), Patimahapatra (chief priest), and Mudirast Chandan Bijay (sandalwood paste applied with reverence) perform the Sarvaanga Neeti (ritualistic application of adornments all over the deities) on the deities. After this, the Bhesh (dressing) ritual is performed, followed by the Madhyahna (noon) Dhup Neeti (ritual).

Subsequently, the Bar (groom – Lord MadanMohan) and kanya (bride – Goddess Devi) are crowned with jewels and a Bandapana (salutation) is performed. After the Bandapana ritual is completed, the Azjamala (garland) is presented to the Bar and Kanya, and the Mahajan Sevaks (chief servants) perform Bijay (victory) and place them on the Palinki (ceremonial palanquin) near the Jhulan Mandap (swing pavilion).

The Vimana Bado (carriages) carry the Palinki to the front of the main temple, and a Panti Bhoga (offering of food) is performed in Anand Bazar (a market area) while passing through Singhdwar (Lion Gate) with Ghanta (bells), Ghanta, Kahali (cymbals), and Alochmala (light garlands).

At Shrinagar (a special area), Gajapati Maharaja (the King) takes the Bar and Kanya on a chariot and performs the Puja Panda (ceremonial priest) with Panchaupachar Vidhi (five types of offerings).

After this, the Prasad (sacred food) is distributed, and Gajapati Maharaja performs Bandapana and Chamara Alata (fan-waving) rituals in front of the deities.

Then, the Shrinagar is cleaned, and the Sevaks (servants) and other personnel come out. The Shrinagar is closed. Gajapati Maharaja performs Bandapana and offers gifts to the Bar and Kanya. After this, the Singhdwar of Shrinagar is opened.

Subsequently, the Mahajan Sevaks place the Bar and Kanya on the Palinki. The Palinki is carried on shoulders to the Jagannath Temple of Jammeshwar by the Vimana Bado Sevayats. There, a Panch Grassi Bhoga (offering of five types of grass) and Bandapana are performed in their honor. After this, Bahuda Bijay (victory procession) is performed and they return to the Dakshina Ghar (South House). After the Alata (light), Chandan (sandalwood paste) application and Bada Singhara Bhoga (offering of a large sweet) rituals are completed in the Shri Mandir, the Bar and Kanya enter the Dakshina Ghar and are installed on the throne. Other daily rituals are performed, and the day ends at night. After this, the Chhampaka Dwadashi ritual is observed.

“Chant ‘Haribola!’ as Lord Madanmohan, the divine groom, embarks on his glorious Guali Utsava procession on Chhampaka Dwadashi. This sacred ritual at the Shri Mandir, rich with royal tradition and devotion, celebrates the divine union. Bring the essence of this festival to your own home. Explore authentic puja items, beautiful vastra for your deities, and unique spiritual decor at JustKalinga.com to honor the Lord’s timeless traditions.”