On the third day of the iconic Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha, the divine deities—Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra—completed their ceremonial Adapa Mandap Bije, a significant ritual of the festival.
On Sunday evening, the sacred idols were carried from their majestic chariots to the Janmabedi (birth altar) inside the Gundicha Temple in a vibrant Goti Pahandi procession. Amidst chants of “Jai Jagannath,” “Hari Bol,” and the rhythmic sounds of cymbals and “Hulahuli,” thousands of devotees gathered along the Badadanda to witness this divine spectacle, enhanced by the graceful performances of Odissi dancers.
The procession began with Lord Balabhadra, followed by Devi Subhadra, and concluded with Lord Jagannath, whose entry into the Gundicha Temple was marked by fervent devotion. Despite minor delays during the chariot journey, the Pahandi proceeded smoothly, with the deities adorned in resplendent attire. The Adapa Mandap, revered as Lord Jagannath’s most cherished abode during the Rath Yatra, is now set to welcome devotees for the sacred Adapa Darshan starting Monday, June 30.
Scriptures describe the Adapa Mandap as the Mahabedi Yog, the most beloved earthly abode of Lord Jagannath, making this darshan a profound spiritual experience. The temple administration has strengthened security measures to accommodate the expected surge of pilgrims. Additionally, devotees will have the opportunity to partake in the Adapa Abhada (prasad) at the Gundicha Temple for six days starting Monday, with preparations already in full swing.
Sunday’s rituals included Pushpanjali at 6:40 PM, followed by the Adapa Pahandi from 6:50 PM to 10:00 PM. On Saturday, after the chariots reached the Gundicha Temple, daily rituals like Chandan Lagi and Bada Singhara Besha were performed, concluding with the nighttime Pahuda by 12:15 AM. On Monday, rituals will commence at 5:00 AM with Dwaraphita, followed by Bhitara Shodha at 5:30 AM, Mangala Alati at 6:00 AM, and Sahana Mela Darshan from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM, as per the temple administration’s schedule.
This sacred event, steeped in tradition and devotion, underscores the spiritual essence of the Rath Yatra, drawing devotees from across the globe to Puri’s divine shores.
RELATED STORY: Banakalagi Niti at Gundicha Temple; Darshan of The Trinity to Remain Closed for 5 hours Monday
