Puri: Today marks the final day of the sacred Krishna Leela at the famous Srimandir in Puri, Odisha. The event, which began on the eighth day of the dark fortnight (Krishna Paksha) of Bhadra month, has been a spiritual journey depicting the various divine plays of Lord Krishna. The series of Leelas will conclude today with the grand enactment of the legendary battle between Lord Krishna and the demon king Kansa.
As part of today's ritual, the fearsome demon Keshi will be presented by the devotees from Kalika Devi Sahi after the evening incense rituals (Sandhyadhupa Niti). As per tradition, Lord Madanmohan, representing Lord Krishna, will engage in a symbolic battle with Keshi at the Nata Mandap. The divine battle will culminate in the demon's defeat and death, signifying the triumph of good over evil.
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This grand event, rooted in centuries-old tradition, attracts thousands of devotees every year. Today, on the auspicious ninth day of the bright fortnight (Shukla Paksha) of Bhadra month, the Leela will reach its climax with Lord Krishna slaying Kansa, the tyrant king of Mathura. This divine victory will be celebrated in a ceremonial procession at the Bada Danda (Grand Road) in front of Lord Jagannath’s Srimandir.
A Ritualistic Journey Through Time
The day’s events will begin with the sacred Agyan Mala (garland of divine orders) being placed on the Palinki (palanquin) carrying the idols of Sri Ramakrishna. The procession will then start from the Srimandir, making its way towards the Lavani Khia Mandap, where the Mahabhoi family will offer sacred salt (Lavani) to Lord Krishna as part of the traditional rituals. Following this, the procession will head towards the symbolic city of Mathura, which in this case is represented by the Bada Danda.
As the divine play unfolds, the final episode of Krishna Leela will be performed near the Lion Gate (Singhadwara) of the Srimandir. Here, the epic battle between Lord Krishna and King Kansa will take place. After an intense combat, Lord Krishna will ultimately defeat and kill Kansa, bringing an end to the tyrant’s reign. With Kansa’s defeat, the Lord’s palanquin will return to Srimandir, marking the conclusion of the Krishna Leela festivities.
The Sacred Radhastami Celebration
Yesterday, the sacred Radhastami festival was celebrated with great devotion at Srimandir. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Goddess Radha, the eternal consort of Lord Krishna. Due to the extended rituals and celebrations, the Niti (daily rituals) at the temple continued late into the night. The final Pahuda Niti (ritual of putting the deities to sleep) was completed at 5:09 AM today. Following the Pahuda Niti, at around 6:47 AM, the Bitarachha Mahapatra conducted the Singhadwara Fita Niti (opening of the Lion Gate).
By 7:50 AM, the sacred Jay Bijay Dwara (gate of victory) was opened, and the daily Mangala Alati, Mailam, Abakash, and Besa (dress rituals) were performed. The Lord was then offered the Gopal Ballav Bhog, marking the completion of the morning rituals. However, due to the delayed rituals yesterday, many devotees had to wait long hours to catch a glimpse of the Lord. With today being a Sunday and a public holiday, the temple is expected to see a large gathering of devotees.
A Glimpse of Tradition and Devotion
Krishna Leela is one of the most anticipated events at Srimandir, deeply rooted in tradition and devotion. The enactments of Lord Krishna’s divine pastimes not only bring the stories from ancient scriptures to life but also serve as a reminder of the eternal victory of good over evil. The concluding event, where Lord Krishna vanquishes Kansa, symbolizes the destruction of negativity and the restoration of dharma (righteousness).
For centuries, the people of Odisha and devotees from all over the country have gathered at Srimandir to witness these divine plays. The elaborate rituals, processions, and performances create an atmosphere of spirituality and devotion, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all those who participate.
As the festivities come to an end today, the devotees will carry with them the blessings of Lord Krishna, along with the hope that the triumph of good over evil will resonate in their lives. The Krishna Leela at Srimandir is not just a celebration of Lord Krishna’s life but a reflection of the eternal spiritual truth that continues to guide humanity.