Bhubaneswar, Feb, 3: Under the auspices of the Shri Jagannath Culture Promotion Organization, the restoration of the historic Anakar Gadi Brahma and an AI-based video film were ceremonially dedicated at the feet of Lord Jagannath during the Jagannath Mahotsav and later released on YouTube.
The AI video film presents detailed narratives on the rituals of Shrimandir, including the Rath Yatra and Snana Yatra, emphasizing that these sacred observances cannot be conducted arbitrarily. The film highlights the significance and scriptural foundations of these festivals.
The release function was attended by Dr. Narayan Mohapatra, Bharati Bhushan Pattnaik, Trilochan Nayak, Arun Biswal (Convenor of Anakar Gadi Brahma Temple), Dhuleswar Mallik, Debadatta Biswal, Ashish Khuntia, Shiva Prasad Mohanty, Bijay Panda, Srinivas Rao, Chakradhar Majhi and others.
The various attires (beshas) of Lord Jagannath were described as exquisitely beautiful. It was emphasized that Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath is not merely an idol but a living deity. Similarly, the ‘Seva Niti’ (ritual code) of Shrimandir is not just an administrative schedule; rather, it is the spiritual grammar of the Odia nation. It must be understood that divine rituals are not optional arrangements. They constitute a sacred discipline that preserves the dignity of the Lord and the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.
The nearly 200-year-old Anakar Gadi Brahma tradition at Astaranga, which had remained discontinued for about 40 years, has been revived this year for the first time, bringing great joy to the villagers, who extended their full cooperation.
Voices are rising across Odisha regarding the conduct of an unscheduled Rath Yatra. Jagannath devotees and even the Gajapati Maharaja have expressed that holding Rath Yatra on an unprescribed or non-scriptural date is inappropriate. If that is the case, how can the daily rituals be altered? The government and administration are urged to formulate clear guidelines ensuring that no compromise is made with the ‘Nitya Niti’ (daily ritual system).
For the people of Odisha, Kalia Thakur (Lord Jagannath) is a living deity and the very embodiment of their spiritual existence.
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