Odisha: Tradition and Rituals broken during Nabakalebara 2015

All traditions broken at Puri Jagannath Temple, as 100-odd Daitapatis held the system, government, administration as well as the deities to ransom. Although only 4 Badagrahis were authorized to see, hold and install the Brahma inside the new idols, the Daitapatis insisted on seeing those and finally had their way.

In the entire process, all rituals got delayed. The veteran Daitapatis wanted to be there during ‘Brahma Sthapan”, but Badagrahis objected to it. According to sources, the deadlock continued for hours and even there was a paper ballot to determine whether they would be allowed or not.

Finally, the issue was resolved around the noon and Daitapatis witnessed the ‘Ghata Parivartan’, which was slated to be held during the night hours, but was held in the afternoon. Even, the Patali or burial of the deities was conducted in the afternoon, in violation of all rules and tradition.

The stubbornness of the Daitapatis hurt the sentiments of millions of Hindus and followers of Lord Jagannath across the globe. The Odisha Government and SJTA remained weak and helpless before them.