Odisha Sun Times Bureau
Puri, July 5:

Lakhs of devotees today made a beeline to the Pilgrim town to have the first glimpse of the Lords on the occasion of Nabajouban darshan in Jagannath temple in Odisha’s Puri, after a 15-day break.

Pic Courtesy: www.pixshark.com Pic Courtesy: www.pixshark.com

After recuperating from illness due to the grand bath on Sanana Yatra, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra moved out of the fortnight-long hibernation known as ‘Anasara’ or ‘Anavasara’ and gave darshan to their devotees today.

For this, elaborate arrangements have been put in place for smooth conduct of the darshan. Devotees wishing to have Paramanik darshan were allowed to enter into the world famous 12th century shrine through the South Gate and visitors interested in Sarbasadharan darshan were routed through the Lion’s Gate of the temple. The devotees had the glimpse of the deities from the outer barricade inside the temple since restrictions were put following the repair and restoration work of the Jagamohana.

“I am elated to be here for the darshan of Lord Jagannath and His siblings. I visit the Holy town every year for darshan as well as the Rath Yatra. Jai Jagannath,” a devotee said.

It may be mentioned here that Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) this year lifted the restriction on Nabajouban darshan of the Lords. Last year, the devotees weren't allowed for the Nabajouban darshan.

According to reports, the rituals of the deities were delayed by three hours in the morning. Among the rituals, ‘Banakalagi’, ‘Chaka Apasara’, ‘Mangala Arati’, ‘Mailam’ and ‘Abakasha Niti’ were performed following which devotees were allowed for the darshan.