Ritualistic ‘Maha Yajna’ Begins for Srimandir Parikrama Project Inauguration

Puri: The ritualistic ‘Maha Yajna’ ceremony preceding the Puri Srimandir Parikrama Project inauguration on January 17 began on the parikrama premises in Puri on Monday. ‘Mandal Pujan’ ritual marked the start of the ‘Maha Yajna’ on the day of the Makar Sankranti.

The Maha Yajna commences with the veneration of Surya, the sun god, followed by Yagna Mandap Pradikhyan, Toram Puja, Dwarapal Puja, and Dhwaja Puja.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is scheduled to inaugurate the much-awaited Praikrama Project. This Rs 800-crore project is to provide all necessary amenities and smooth darshan of deities to the devotees thronging to this revered holy city.

Odisha government has declared a holiday on January 17. All government offices, schools, and colleges of the state will remain closed on that day. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has invited representatives from 90 major religious shrines and institutions across the country to attend the inauguration ceremony of the Srimandir Parikrama Project.