Devotees gather for Lord Jagannath's bathing rituals

India Jun 11, 2025

Puri was buzzing on Wednesday as huge crowds turned up for Deva Snana Purnima—the annual ritual where Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are bathed in public. Even Odisha's new Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi joined the sea of devotees at the 12th-century temple, making it a day full of tradition and excitement.

Idols bathed with 108 pitchers of holy water

The deities were bathed with 108 pitchers of holy water—marking Lord Jagannath's birthday—while Vedic chants filled the air. Security was tight: 70 platoons, 450 officers, and AI-powered cameras kept things smooth for everyone. After the ceremony, public darshan began in the evening. The idols now rest in 'Anasara Ghar' for two weeks to recover with special food and care before they're back on display.