Patna: The ISKCON temple on Buddha Marg in Patna observed Dev Purnima on June 29, 2026, with a grand Sri Jagannath Snan Utsav marked by ritual bathing, devotional chanting and ceremonial offerings.
Ritual Bathing Ceremony Performed
The programme began with a Hare Krishna kirtan, followed by the Mahabhishek of Lord Jagannath, conducted using Panchagavya and water drawn from a thousand vessels. Devotees gathered in large numbers to witness the ritual performed on the full moon day of Jyeshtha month.
The temple premises echoed with devotional chants as priests carried out the bathing ceremony in accordance with traditional practices associated with Snan Purnima.
Offering of Chhappan Bhog and Maha Aarti
After the bathing ritual, Chhappan Bhog, an offering of 56 food items, was presented to the deity. This was followed by Maha Aarti performed amid chanting and congregational prayers.
Mahaprasad was later distributed among devotees present at the temple complex.
Gajavesha Darshan Attracts Devotees
A key highlight of the event was the Gajavesha darshan of Lord Jagannath, where the deity is believed to appear in an elephant form. Devotees offered prayers during this special appearance, considered significant in Jagannath tradition.
Temple authorities said the ritual holds deep cultural and spiritual importance within Sanatan Dharma and is observed annually on Dev Purnima.
Mythological Significance Explained by Devotees
During the programme, ISKCON representatives highlighted traditional beliefs associated with Snan Yatra. According to them, the festival traces its roots to the installation of Lord Jagannath in the form of Darubrahma by King Indradyumna, when the first ceremonial bathing was performed on Jyeshtha Purnima.
They also referred to the belief of Anasar Kaal, a 15-day period when the deity is said to remain in seclusion and is offered special herbal preparations before the annual Rath Yatra.
Devotees and Members in Attendance
Several devotees and life members of the temple participated in the rituals, including representatives from the ISKCON TMC group such as Venu Vinod Das.
The temple concluded the ceremony with devotional hymns and distribution of Mahaprasad among attendees.
