Bhubaneswar, May 19: The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri will remain closed for four hours tomorrow to facilitate the Banakalagi ritual of the sibling deities—Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra.
According to a notification issued by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the Banakalagi Niti will be performed on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, on the occasion of Jyeshtha Krushna Chaturthi Tithi. In view of the ritual, public darshan will remain suspended from 6 pm to 10 pm after the completion of the second Bhog Mandap offering.
During the Banakalagi ritual, fresh natural colours are applied to the idols of the deities. Traditional materials such as Hingula, Haritala, Kasturi, Keshar, and Kaintha gum are used to prepare the sacred mixture known as “Banaka.”
As per tradition, the ritual is conducted by designated servitors, including Dutta Mohapatra and Khadiprasad Daitapati sevayats. During this time, the sanctum sanctorum remains closed and entry is restricted to outsiders.
The temple administration has requested devotees to plan their visit accordingly and cooperate with the temporary restriction in darshan hours.