Kendrapada/Balangir: Snana Purnima was observed at Baladevjew temple in Kendrapada and Balangir in strict adherence to COVID guidelines.
After the Mangal Arpana, Pahandi of the Lords started at 7 am. Sibling deities Lord Baladev, Lord Jagannath and Devi Subhadra were taken to the Snana Mandap. This was followed by Snana Niti (bathing ritual) when the deities were bathed in 108 pots of aromatic water.
After the bathing, the Trinity was dressed up in Hati Besha (elephant attire). At 2 pm, the Khechudi Dhupa ritual was held.
Entry of deities to Anasara abode is scheduled at 8 pm. Police have been deployed in and around the temple to ensure security and COVID protocol.
It may be mentioned that Kendrapada district administration has imposed Section-144 in Baladevjew temple for Snana Purnima from 7 pm of June 23 to 7 am of June 25.
Likewise, Snana Purnima was observed at Jagannath temple in Jagannath Pada, Chanda Temple at Tikra Pada and in Gopalji temple in Balangir district. After the morning rituals, the bathing ritual started at 10 am.
All the rituals were performed with adherence to COVID guidelines. Only selected Sevayats performed all the rituals.
At Patali Srikhetra in Sonepur district the Purnima was celebrated sans devotees.