Puri, June 06: In a surprising turn of events, Lord Jagannath Swami Ji, the revered deity of the Jagannath Swami Temple, has taken a 15-day sick leave. The intense heatwave has led to the closure of the temple, compelling the deity to isolate himself in the Anasara Ghara, the temple’s isolation ward.
This period of seclusion, known as Anasar, disrupts the devotees’ daily darshan and emphasizes the significance of quarantine measures.
Lord Jagannath’s illness can be attributed to a heat stroke during his ceremonial bath in the open. The scorching sun proved to be the cause of his fall from divine health. Despite this setback, devoted followers offer heartfelt prayers for his speedy recovery.
- Rituals of Revitalization
To aid Lord Jagannath’s recovery, the deities are brought out of the temple sanctum for a ritual bath using medicinal water, accompanied by sacred Vedic chants. This purifying ceremony signifies the devotion of the faithful, while also providing spiritual healing for the deity.
2. Anbasara: A Period of Nurturing
Once the deities are taken to the Anasara Ghara, they embark on a period of healing and rejuvenation. Here, they receive daily medication from the temple physician and are served a nutritious yet dry meal, distinct from the regular Chhappan Bhog. Ayurvedic treatments with oil, known as Phuluri, are administered by the Daitapatis (priests), further aiding in their recovery. This period of quarantine, called Anbasara, symbolizes the deities’ path to revitalization.
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3. Nava Yovan: A Renewed Manifestation
After recovering from their illness, the deities are served solid food, particularly Khichuri, signifying a return to their divine vigor. The first darshan following the Anasar period is called Nava Yovan, marking a joyous reunion between Lord Jagannath and his devoted followers.
4. Drawing Inspiration and Uniting Against COVID-19
Lord Jagannath’s temporary seclusion serves as an inspiration for humanity in the face of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. By cooperating with the government’s guidelines and practicing isolation measures, we can stop the spread of the deadly virus and safeguard our communities. Let us emulate the Lord’s determination and contribute to saving lives, protecting our nation, and preserving humanity.
As Lord Jagannath embarks on his journey toward complete recovery, the Jagannath Swami Temple remains closed to devotees during this period of healing.
However, the much-anticipated celebration of Deva Snana Purnima, the birth anniversary of Lord Jagannath, awaits on the full moon day in the Hindu calendar month of Jyeshtha. It is during this festival that devotees can once again partake in the darshan of Lord Jagannath and his divine siblings at the Snana Mandap, experiencing their divine presence and basking in their blessings.
Furthermore, the upcoming Rath Yatra further exemplifies the significance and grandeur of Lord Jagannath’s divine manifestations.
