Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, the titular king of Puri and foremost servitor (Adya Sevaka) of Lord Jagannath, performed the sacred Pushyabhisheka ritual today at the historic Shree Nahar, the royal palace in Puri.
The ritual took place on the auspicious Pushya Nakshatra in the Pausha month. It symbolised the ceremonial re-coronation of the Gajapati king and reaffirmed his divine role in Jagannath temple traditions. Moreover, it emphasised his position as the living representative of Lord Jagannath, often revered as the “Chalanti Pratima” (moving deity).
The ceremony began with elaborate preparations. Soon after, the Maharaja ascended the ornate throne while priests and sevaks chanted Vedic hymns. Then, they anointed him with sacred substances in a solemn ritual attended by the royal family, Brahmin sevaks, and select devotees.
Furthermore, the event featured the proclamation of his full royal title. This grand recitation underscored his lineage, valour, and spiritual authority. Through the Pushyabhisheka ritual, the king renewed his sacred bond with Lord Jagannath and reinforced his role as custodian of temple traditions. In addition, the ceremony highlighted his duties during the famous Rath Yatra, where he performs the ceremonial Chhera Pahanra (sweeping of the chariots).
Local media extensively covered the event. They captured the grandeur of the palace proceedings and the devotion of attendees. Consequently, devotees expressed joy at the preservation of this unique royal-spiritual tradition. Ultimately, the Pushyabhisheka ritual continues to showcase Odisha’s cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of the Gajapati dynasty.
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