On Wednesday, coinciding with the Chaturthi tithi, the Puri Srimandir (Shree Jagannath Temple) will host the special Srimukha Singhar and Banakalagi ritual for Lord Jagannath.
This ritual enhances the divine glow on the Lord’s face, leading to temporary restrictions on public darshan in the afternoon. According to the Srimandir administration, general darshan will be closed from 5 PM to 10 PM on Wednesday, ensuring the ritual proceeds undisturbed.
The Banakalagi will commence after the second Bhogamandap offering. Dedicated Dattamahapatra servitors will perform this exclusive ritual on the deities. Once completed and the servitors exit the sanctum sanctorum, additional rites such as Sinhason dhua and Mahaprabhu’s Mahasnana will follow, after which public darshan of the Lord will resume.
This year’s Banakalagi comes after a 34-day interval. The previous ritual was held on December 3 last year, with the next scheduled for January 7. In contrast, previous years saw the ritual typically occurring between December 12 and 20.
The Banakalagi is a cherished tradition that draws devotees from across the region, symbolising renewal and divine beauty in the worship of Lord Jagannath.
