Rajarajeshwar Besha of Lord Ishwaranath Mahadev Celebrated

Kakatpur, Date: 17/04 — Monday marked the auspicious occasion of Krishna Paksha Dwadashi in the sacred month of Baisakha. On this day, the grand Rajarajeshwar Besha (royal attire) of Lord Ishwaranath Mahadev, the famous Shaiva shrine located in Jiunti village under Astarang block of Puri district, was solemnly observed.

The temple doors were opened at 4:20 AM, followed by the Mangala Aarti, after which the deity was bathed and ritually cleansed before being opened for public darshan. The morning rituals included Surya Puja, Avakash, and Balabhoga. At 11:00 AM, the Rudrabhishek ritual was performed using water from 108 scented kalasas (sacred pots).

As per temple tradition, Dwadashi Homa (sacred fire ritual) and ceremonial offering of various dishes were also conducted. In the evening, Sandhya Aarti and Bada Singhar Niti (grand adornment) were carried out, followed by the offering of Dahi Pakhala Bhoga (fermented rice and curd) before the temple was closed for the day.

It is believed that among the eight forms of Lord Shiva worshipped in the region, a darshan of Lord Ishwaranath in his Rajarajeshwar Besha bestows immense spiritual merit. All rituals of the day were concluded by temple priest Prafulla Chandra Panda.

Meanwhile, in the same village of Jiunti, a grand Ashtaprahara Naam Yajna (24-hour devotional chanting) is being held in the courtyard of village deity Maa Jagulai’s temple. The organizers, led by Prashant Bishwal, announced that a Nagar Kirtan and Purnahuti (final offering) will be held on Tuesday.

The entire village of Jiunti has become vibrant and festive in celebration of these spiritual events.