Shri Jagannath Temple hosts Nandotsav and Kalia Dalana Ekadashi rituals

The Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri is hosting a series of special religious rituals to celebrate Nandotsav and Kalia Dalana Ekadashi. Following the observance of Lord Krishna’s birth, Nandotsav celebrations include rituals such as placing deities on a swing in the Jagamohan and performing Shathi and Markandi Puja. A senior servitor assumes the role of Nanda Raja as part of the traditional observance.

Simultaneously, the temple is observing Kalia Dalana Ekadashi, which features the Kalia Dalana Besha ritual. In this tradition, Lord Jagannath is adorned to represent Lord Krishna subduing the serpent Kalia. Large numbers of devotees have gathered for the Mangala Alati of Patitapabana and to witness the Dhenukasura Vadha ritual, which commemorates episodes from the life of Lord Krishna.