Jagannath Snana Yatra

The Enchanting Snana Yatra

A Celebration of Divinity and Renewal. The Snana Yatra, also known as Dev Snana Purnima, is a vibrant and spiritually significant festival observed in the Hindu calendar. It falls on the Purnima (full moon) day of the Jyeshtha month, which typically coincides with June or July. This year, it falls on June 11th, 2025. Centered around the holy city of Puri, Odisha, the festival celebrates the bathing ceremony of the revered deities – Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, sister Subhadra, and the divine discus Sudarshana – housed in the iconic Jagannath Temple.

A Celebration Steeped in Tradition

A Celebration Steeped in Tradition

A Celebration Steeped in Tradition

The origins of Snana Yatra trace back centuries, possibly to the 12th century. The festival holds immense importance for Vaishnavas, devotees of Lord Vishnu. Legends associated with the festival weave a fascinating narrative. One popular story recounts the appearance day of Lord Jagannath being commemorated on this day. Another tale explains the significance of the bathing ritual. It is believed that a devotee, Ganapati Bhatta, expected Lord Jagannath to resemble Lord Ganesha. Disappointed by the deity’s form, he planned to leave Puri. Lord Jagannath, understanding the devotee’s pure heart, appeared in the form of an elephant-headed deity in the evening, fulfilling Ganapati Bhatta’s wish and establishing the tradition of the Snana Yatra.

The origins of Snana Yatra trace back centuries, possibly to the 12th century. The festival holds immense importance for Vaishnavas, devotees of Lord Vishnu. Legends associated with the festival weave a fascinating narrative. One popular story recounts the appearance day of Lord Jagannath being commemorated on this day. Another tale explains the significance of the bathing ritual. It is believed that a devotee, Ganapati Bhatta, expected Lord Jagannath to resemble Lord Ganesha. Disappointed by the deity’s form, he planned to leave Puri. Lord Jagannath, understanding the devotee’s pure heart, appeared in the form of an elephant-headed deity in the evening, fulfilling Ganapati Bhatta’s wish and establishing the tradition of the Snana Yatra.

Choose your SEVA

Your support can help us serve thousands of hungry souls across Delhi with hot, nutritious, and sanctified meals. Be a part of this divine mission donate today and spread the warmth of compassion.

Donate 51 Meals

Donate 51 Meals

Donate 101 Meals

Donate 101 Meals

Donate 251 Meals

Donate 251 Meals

Donate 501 Meals

Donate 501 Meals

Donate 1001 Meals

Donate 1001 Meals

Donate 2001 Meals

Donate 2001 Meals

Donate 5001 Meals

Donate 5001 Meals

General Donation

General Donation

agannath Snana Yatra 2025

The Ritual Unfolds

The Snana Yatra is not just a one-day event; it’s a meticulously planned, multi-day festival. Here’s a glimpse into the key rituals:

On the day of Snana Yatra, 108 pots of sanctified water are collected from the auspicious Sunakuan well. Devotees meticulously fill these pots, ensuring utmost purity. The deities are then bathed in this holy water amidst a festive atmosphere filled with chants and joyous fervor. Interestingly, the deities are adorned in a unique elephant attire – a tradition believed to have originated from the legend of Ganapati Bhatta.
The Sacred Bathing Ceremony

The Sacred Bathing Ceremony

On the eve of Snana Yatra, a grand procession called Pahandi Vijay takes place. The deities are ceremoniously brought out from the inner sanctum amidst chanting, devotional music, and rhythmic drumbeats. Devotees gather to witness this divine event as the deities are taken to the Snana Mandapa, a specially built bathing platform, in preparation for the next day's sacred rituals.
Pahandi Vijay Procession

Pahandi Vijay Procession

Following the grand bathing ceremony, the deities are believed to experience a period of illness. They are subsequently taken to a secluded chamber called the Ratan Bedi and remain veiled from public view for 15 days. This period, known as Anasara, signifies a time of renewal and recuperation for the deities. Devotees believe witnessing the deities during Snana Yatra washes away sins, making it a highly auspicious occasion.
An Interlude and Renewal

An Interlude and Renewal