Puri Jagannath Temple Opens at 2 am from Today for Pahili Bhoga Rituals

From today, December 16, the sacred doors of the Jagannath Temple in Puri will open as early as 2 am, marking the beginning of a month-long special darshan arrangement under the approved Pahili Bhoga ritual schedule. The decision, finalised with the consent of the Chhatisha Nijog and the Sri Jagannath Temple Administration’s sub-committee, will remain in force until January 13, allowing devotees extended early-morning access to the Holy Trinity.

As per the revised ritual calendar, while the temple gates will open at 2 am daily, Ratri Pahuda or the closing of the temple will be observed by 11 pm. The early opening is aimed at ensuring the smooth conduct of the Pahili Bhoga ritual and facilitating uninterrupted darshan during the peak winter pilgrimage season, when footfall in Puri traditionally rises.

The ritual schedule also confirms that the Debabhishek Purnima Suna Besha will be observed on January 3, adding to the spiritual significance of the ongoing period. Preparations have also been finalised for Makara Sankranti rituals, which will be held on January 14, 2026.

Anticipating a massive influx of devotees on New Year’s Day, the temple administration has introduced special arrangements for December 31. On that night, Pahuda will be observed before 11 pm, after which the temple gates will reopen later to allow devotees waiting on the Grand Road, or Bada Danda, to have darshan in a systematic and orderly manner.

To manage the expected crowds, a dedicated sub-committee comprising servitors has been formed. The committee will work in close coordination with the temple administration, district authorities and volunteers to ensure smooth crowd movement and minimise inconvenience to pilgrims. Special provisions have also been approved for persons with disabilities, who will be allowed darshan through the northern gate. Discussions were additionally held on creating arrangements for orderly darshan for local residents of Puri during the high-footfall days.

Meanwhile, servitors have expressed satisfaction with the ongoing arrangements at the Gundicha Temple. However, darshan inside its sanctum sanctorum will remain suspended until conservation work is fully completed. Normal darshan at the Gundicha Temple will resume only after the restoration process concludes.

With the temple opening at 2 am from today, the holy town of Puri once again steps into a spiritually charged phase, welcoming devotees from across the country to begin their day with the early glimpse of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.