Puri: ‘Banabhoji Besha’ is being held in Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s pilgrim town of Puri on Saturday. The sibling deities are be attired in the attractive Banabhoji Besha.
This special ritual is performed on Bhadraba Krushna Dasami (the 10th day of the dark fortnight in Bhadraba). As part of the ritual, the deities are dressed like cowherd boys, as if they are going to attend a picnic.
Lord Krishna, known for his love for adventure and natural beauty, happens to be a central figure in Jagannath culture.
Devotees of Lord Krishna consider him as one of the Purna Avatars of Lord Jagannath. All the playful activities – balya lilas – associated with Lord Krishna are conducted as rituas after Lord Krishna’s birth on Janmastami.
Bana Bhoji Besha, one of the special attires of Lord Jagannath, illustrates the fun-loving aspect of Lord Krishan. Lord Krishna with his elder brother Balaram goes to picnic with their friends, they carry pots of full of cream (lahuni ) .
The Lords are attired in several gold ornaments that reflect their royal lineage. Jewelleries used during the occasion include ‘odhiani’, ’tilaka’ and a number of necklaces.
