Darshan Temporarily Halted at Puri Srimandir Due to Blood Stains Near Bhitara Katha

Puri: On Sunday, darshan at the revered Puri Srimandir was temporarily suspended after blood stains were discovered near the Bhitara Katha, the innermost sanctum barrier of the temple. This prompted the immediate initiation of the ‘Bada Maha Snana’ (grand purification) ritual for the presiding deities, leading to a delay in the day’s proceedings.

The day’s rituals commenced with the customary ‘Dwara Phita Niti’ and ‘Mangala Alati,’ allowing devotees to begin their darshan of Lord Jagannath and the sibling deities. Shortly thereafter, temple servitors noticed blood stains in the vicinity of the Bhitara Katha. In adherence to temple protocols, the ‘Bada Maha Snana’ ritual was promptly conducted to purify the sanctum, necessitating a temporary halt in darshan.

While the exact source of the blood stains remains undetermined, it is speculated that a devotee, possibly a woman wearing glass bangles, might have sustained a minor injury, leading to the presence of blood. Such incidents have been recorded in the past, especially during periods of increased footfall. Given that Sundays typically attract a larger number of devotees, the temple experienced significant crowds, which may have contributed to the occurrence.

The purification process resulted in an estimated delay of 40 to 45 minutes in the darshan schedule. During this period, devotees present within the temple premises took the opportunity to visit other shrines in the complex. The temple administration ensured that the barricades leading to the sanctum were equipped with overhead covers, providing relief to devotees from the prevailing heat.