Puri, a city in the state of Odisha, India, is home to one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in the world—the Jagannath Temple (also known as Puri Srimandir). This ancient temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, attracts millions of devotees annually. The temple’s rituals and ceremonies are deeply rooted in tradition, with each event holding sacred significance. One of the most prominent of these is the Banakalagi Ritual, which has led to the temporary closure of the temple’s public darshan (viewing of the deities) on specific days.
On July 17, 2025, the Puri Jagannath Temple will remain closed for public darshan between 6:30 PM and 11:00 PM. This temporary closure is to accommodate the Banakalagi Ritual, a unique and sacred ceremony performed in the temple to refresh the faces of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra.
In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about this ritual, why it is important, and how you can plan your visit around the temple’s schedule. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned devotee, understanding this tradition will enhance your experience and ensure that your visit to Puri Srimandir is both spiritual and well-planned.
Puri Srimandir Closes Public Darshan for Banakalagi Ritual
| Event | Date and Time | Reason for Closure | Duration of Closure | Suggested Visit Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Puri Srimandir Public Darshan | July 17, 2025, from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM | Banakalagi Ritual | 5 hours | Before 5:00 PM or after 11:00 PM |
| Temple Management | Official Puri Jagannath Temple Website | Jagannath Temple Official | Official Announcement |
Important Note: Ensure to check the Puri Jagannath Temple’s official website for any changes or updates to this schedule.
The Banakalagi Ritual at the Puri Jagannath Temple is a time-honored tradition that adds to the spiritual richness of the temple. While it temporarily suspends public darshan, this event is a powerful reminder of the sacred connection between the divine and the devotees. Whether you’re visiting to participate in the ritual or simply to admire the magnificence of the temple, Puri remains one of the most spiritually fulfilling destinations in the world.
By planning your visit according to the temple’s schedule, you can ensure a smooth and memorable experience. Respecting the rituals and adhering to the temple’s guidelines will enhance your understanding of the deep spiritual traditions that make Puri Jagannath Temple a must-visit pilgrimage site.
What is the Banakalagi Ritual?
The Banakalagi Ritual is one of the temple’s most sacred ceremonies. The term “Banakalagi” comes from the Odia words Banaka (meaning face) and Lagi (meaning to apply or adorn). During this ritual, the deities of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra are adorned with fresh herbal pigments, and their faces are refreshed with these substances to maintain their divine appearance. This ritual ensures that the deities are always represented in the best possible form and reflects the purity and sanctity of the temple.
The ritual takes place in the Sanctum Sanctorum of the temple, where the idols are housed. The Dutta Mohapatra servitors (priests) are responsible for performing the Banakalagi ritual. These servitors use natural pigments such as haritala (yellow), hengula (red), sankha (white), and black to adorn the deities. Each color represents a different aspect of the deities’ divine characteristics.
The Banakalagi ritual is performed at various times of the year, especially during the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), and it is considered one of the most important rituals in the temple’s calendar. It is performed with great devotion and is believed to refresh the divine presence in the temple.
Why Does the Temple Close During the Banakalagi Ritual?
The reason the temple closes to the public during the Banakalagi ritual is simple: the sacred sanctity of the deities and their divine faces must be preserved and refreshed in privacy. Devotees are asked to refrain from entering the temple during this time to allow the servitors to perform the ritual without interruption.
Additionally, the ritual requires a very delicate process of applying the natural pigments, and any disturbance could hinder the proper completion of the ceremony. Hence, to maintain the purity of the ritual and the sanctity of the deities, the temple remains closed for a brief period.
What Does This Mean for Visitors?
If you plan on visiting the Puri Jagannath Temple on July 17, 2025, and want to witness the darshan of the deities, here are a few things you need to know:
- Plan Ahead: Make sure to arrive before 5:00 PM or after 11:00 PM to ensure you can have darshan. During the closure period from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM, you will not be allowed inside the temple for darshan.
- Respect the Ritual: The Banakalagi ritual is a deeply spiritual and sacred event for the devotees of Lord Jagannath. Therefore, it is crucial to respect the temple authorities and follow the guidelines regarding visiting hours.
- Expect Crowds: Even though the temple will be closed to the public for a few hours, Puri remains a bustling city with numerous places to visit. Make sure to explore other attractions such as the Konark Sun Temple, the Chilika Lake, or the Jagannath Ballabh Pahada, especially if you are in town for a short period.
- Temple Etiquette: Always follow the temple’s dress code and spiritual guidelines. Wearing modest attire is a must. It is also customary to remove your footwear before entering the temple.
A Puri Srimandir Closes Public Darshan for Banakalagi Ritual Guide to Visiting Puri Srimandir
If you’re planning your visit to Puri during the Banakalagi Ritual or at any other time, here’s a handy step-by-step guide to make the experience seamless:
1. Check the Official Timings
Before you go, visit the Puri Jagannath Temple’s official website to confirm the opening hours and schedule of events. Temple schedules can sometimes change due to special ceremonies or unforeseen circumstances, so always verify.
2. Arrive Early
For a peaceful and uninterrupted darshan, it’s always best to arrive early. The early hours of the morning, especially around 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM, offer a more serene atmosphere.
3. Follow Temple Guidelines
Upon entering the temple, you will be greeted by temple attendants. Ensure that you follow the dress code, remove your shoes, and adhere to the rules set by the authorities.
4. Take Part in the Rituals
If you visit during a ceremony or festival, feel free to take part in the rituals (if you’re allowed) or simply observe. It is a great way to connect with the spiritual practices of the region.
5. Explore the Temple Complex
After visiting the sanctum sanctorum and taking darshan, be sure to explore the temple’s surroundings. The temple complex is expansive, and you’ll find beautiful carvings, statues, and cultural exhibits that tell the story of the Jagannath tradition.
6. Visit Other Local Attractions
Puri is a city filled with historical significance and natural beauty. Don’t miss out on other nearby attractions, including:
- Konark Sun Temple (a UNESCO World Heritage site)
- Chilika Lake (a haven for bird watchers)
- Puri Beach (for a peaceful retreat)
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FAQs
1. What is Banakalagi Ritual?
The Banakalagi Ritual is a ceremony performed at the Puri Jagannath Temple to refresh the faces of the deities with natural pigments. It is a highly sacred practice that happens at different times of the year.
2. Why is the temple closed for public darshan during the Banakalagi Ritual?
The temple is closed during the ritual to maintain the sacred sanctity of the deities and ensure the proper completion of the Banakalagi ceremony without any disturbance.
3. Can I visit the temple during the Banakalagi Ritual?
No, the temple is closed for darshan from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM on the day of the ritual. Visitors are advised to arrive before 5:00 PM or after 11:00 PM to experience darshan.
4. How can I plan my visit to Puri?
To plan your visit effectively, always check the temple’s official website for timing updates and visit either early in the morning or late in the evening. You can also explore nearby attractions in Puri to make the most of your trip.
