Bhubaneswar, 14 April (H.S.): Shree Jagannath Temple — In a significant development in temple rituals, the deities of Lord Jagannath and His siblings will now repose on newly crafted ‘Ratna Palankas’ (bejewelled beds), beginning from the Odia New Year on April 14.

According to temple authorities, three new Ratna Palankas have been meticulously constructed and adorned with silver plating. Prior to their ceremonial use, the palankas will undergo traditional purification and consecration rituals in accordance with established temple customs.

From Tuesday onwards, the deities will be placed on these newly sanctified palankas as part of the daily sayana (resting) ritual. The introduction of the new palankas reflects a thoughtful blend of age-old traditions with renewed craftsmanship, enhancing the spiritual and cultural heritage of the temple.

Meanwhile, the existing Ratna Palankas will be preserved and relocated to the Niladri Museum within the temple premises. A final decision regarding their exact placement will be taken following a meeting of the temple management committee.

Arabinda Padhee, Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), confirmed the development and stated that all necessary ritual procedures would be completed before the transition.

The move has drawn considerable attention from devotees, as it coincides with the Odia New Year, further elevating the religious significance of the occasion.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda