Puri: Authorities at Shree Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri on Wednesday suspended a Dutta Mohapatra servitor for allegedly causing minor disruption during the sacred Banaka Lagi ritual.
This episode comes at a sensitive time, with preparations in full swing for the Rath Yatra, which begins on July 16, when the deities are taken out in grand procession on their chariots.
According to temple officials, servitor Rashmi Ranjan Dutta Mohapatra misbehaved with the temple Commander and attempted to assault him amid a disagreement over ritual procedures. The incident occurred during Banaka Lagi (also known as Shrimukha Sringara), a key ritual involving the adornment and facial decoration of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Chief Administrator Arabinda Kumar Padhee promptly suspended the servitor following a report from the temple Commander. The servitor has been barred from performing any services at the 12th-century shrine until further orders. Temple authorities, along with police, removed the individual from the premises to ensure the rituals continued without further interruption.
The SJTA has stressed the importance of maintaining strict discipline during the execution of all rituals at the sacred shrine. “The administration is committed to upholding the sanctity and smooth conduct of temple traditions,” sources indicated.
The Dutta Mohapatra Nijog (group of servitors) traditionally plays a significant role in certain rituals, including aspects of Banaka Lagi niti. Past instances of disruptions during this ritual have prompted show-cause notices from the administration to ensure adherence to protocols.
