In a pivotal gathering chaired by SJTA Chief Administrator Dr Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the Chhatisa Nijog of the iconic Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri has finalised the comprehensive policy guidelines for the sacred Kartika month.
The decisions, now stamped with official approval, outline enhanced darshan timings, elaborate beshas (ceremonial dressings) for Lord Jagannath, and several administrative reforms to streamline temple operations.
The temple’s Lion Gate will swing open daily at 4 AM from October 3 to November 5, allowing devotees an early glimpse of the deities during the auspicious period. Following the dawn opening, the Radha Damodar Besa ritual will be performed between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM. Devotees can witness the Bali Dhupa offering from 10 AM to 10:30 AM each morning.
Highlighting the month’s spiritual crescendo, special beshas have been scheduled for key dates. On October 27 (Monday), the Harihara Besa will grace the deities post the standard rest policy. November 2 will feature the Thia Kia Besa or Lakshmi Narayan Besa, accompanied by the Hari Uthapana ritual. The following day, November 3, marks the Dalikia Besa or Trivikram Besa; November 4 brings the Lakshmi Nrusingha Besa; and the finale on November 5 will showcase the regal Rajadhiraj Besa or the resplendent Suna Besa.
Dr. Padhee, addressing the media post-meeting, emphasized the seamless execution of these rituals. “The finalized guidelines ensure a spiritually enriching experience for all pilgrims. With Kartika Brata and Bali Dhupa policies now set, we’re focusing on devotion and discipline,” he stated.
Beyond rituals, the meeting tackled pressing administrative matters. A proposal was passed to initiate the retrieval of silver bricks (Rupa Ita) from the EMA Math, currently under legal scrutiny in court. The temple administration will urge the state government to expedite their return to its custody. Discussions also centered on preparing duplicate sets of beshas affected by the monsoon season to prevent wear and tear.
Post-Kartika, the Dhauli Darshana (dust viewing) at the Natamandap will resume, offering devotees a unique perspective of the deities. On accessibility, the panel deliberated darshan arrangements for Divyang (differently-abled) devotees, assuring no disruption to age-old traditions. A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for inclusive viewing is slated for swift implementation.
Other key resolutions include guidelines for transferring ornaments from the Ratna Bhandar, special provisions for Habishyalis (devotees observing the month-long fast), and stringent mobile phone usage rules within temple premises. Initially targeting JTP (Jagannath Temple Police) personnel, the curbs will extend to sevaks (servitors). A comprehensive guideline is expected imminently. Additionally, a weekly coordination committee will convene every Wednesday to enforce ritual discipline and policy adherence.
The meeting underscored a commitment to preserving the temple’s sanctity while modernising operations. Ornament sets for the deities—excluding the Suna Besa—were also reviewed for future enhancements.
As Puri braces for the influx of Kartika pilgrims, these decisions promise a month of profound piety and streamlined devotion at the abode of Lord Jagannath.
