The Business Bytes
THEBUSINESSBYTES BUREAU
ANGUL, JULY 2, 2025
Devbhoomi, Jindal Nagar, transformed into a vibrant epicentre of spirituality and devotion as it celebrated the auspicious occasion of Hera Panchami on Tuesday with grandeur and grace. The sacred event, deeply rooted in the Jagannath tradition, was marked by elaborate rituals, vibrant processions, and the collective faith of thousands of devotees.
The revered Pratham Sevika of Devbhoomi, Shallu Jindal, led the celebrations with unwavering devotion and sincerity. Under the spiritual guidance of Prime Priest Srikant Ji, she performed every ritual with deep reverence, evoking a divine atmosphere across the temple precincts.
One of the central highlights of the day was the Palinki Yatra of Goddess Mahalaxmi, a ceremonial procession symbolising the Goddess’s visit to the Gundicha Temple to question Lord Jagannath’s extended absence. The procession, rich in cultural symbolism, captivated devotees and added a unique spiritual depth to the celebrations.
The day began as early as 5 a.m. with the commencement of sacred morning rituals such as Mandir Sodha, Mangal Aarati, and Mailam, followed by Tadap Lagi and Abakash Neeti. The Rosha Homa, Surya Puja, Dwarapal Puja, and Vesha Aarati added a majestic aura to the morning proceedings, drawing in thousands of worshippers who thronged the temple to offer prayers and seek blessings.
The sanctity of the day continued in the afternoon with Madhyahna Dhoopa and Pahuda, while the evening unfolded into a divine spectacle. The Sandhya Aarati, the elegant Vesha Lagi of Sridevi at 6:10 p.m., and the sacred Angyan Mala Bije at 7 p.m. filled the air with spiritual fervour. The celebration culminated with the soulful Veta, storytelling of the Rath Katha, and the resplendent Badasinghar Vesha of the Goddess at 8:30 p.m., leaving the devotees spellbound.
The Hera Panchami celebration at Devbhoomi not only reinforced the deep spiritual traditions associated with the Jagannath cult but also showcased the temple’s dedication to preserving and promoting Odisha’s rich religious heritage. With the rituals concluded, the spiritual focus now shifts to the Bahuda Yatra, the ceremonial return of the divine chariots, eagerly awaited by devotees across the region.
