Puri Gajapati Maharaja Performs Pushyabhisheka Ritual, Reaffirms Role as Lord Jagannath’s Servitor

Puri, Odisha: Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, the titular king of Puri and foremost servitor of Lord Jagannath, performed the revered Pushyabhisheka ritual at the historic Shree Nahar royal palace on the auspicious occasion of Pushya Nakshatra in the Pausha month.

The ceremony, symbolising the ceremonial re-coronation of the Gajapati king, reaffirmed his divine role as the living representative of Lord Jagannath, often revered as the “Chalanti Pratima” (moving deity).

The ritual began with elaborate preparations as priests and sevaks chanted Vedic hymns.

The Maharaja ascended the ornate throne and was anointed with sacred substances in the presence of the royal family, Brahmin sevaks, and select devotees. His full royal title was proclaimed, underscoring his lineage, valour, and spiritual authority.

Through this ritual, the king renewed his sacred bond with Lord Jagannath and reinforced his role as custodian of temple traditions.

The ceremony also highlighted his duties during the famous Rath Yatra, where he performs the ceremonial Chhera Pahanra (sweeping of the chariots).

Local media extensively covered the grandeur of the event, capturing the devotion of attendees. Devotees expressed joy at the preservation of this unique royal-spiritual tradition, which continues to showcase Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of the Gajapati dynasty.