Nabajouban Darshan, also known as Netra Utsav, is an important ritual and event at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. The auspicious Hindu festival takes place the day before the famous Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), which usually falls in June or July. The annual ritual of Nabajouban Darshan symbolises the rejuvenation of the deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. The deities are kept away from public view for 15 days, known as Anavasara after the Snana Purnima, and the festival of Nabajouban Darshan marks the first public appearance of the deities after this brief period. Devotees believe that the deities regain their youthful vigour and vitality on this day. However, this year, devotees of Lord Jagannath will not be able to witness the Nabajouban Darshan in the wake of the restrictions by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA). Ahead of Rath Yatra 2024, here we bring you the auspicious Nabajouban Darshan 2024 date, significance and rituals to worship Lord Jagannath.

Nabajouban Darshan 2024 Date

Nabajouban Darshan is an important ritual that takes place a day before Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra. However, this year, it will not be held for the devotees. Rath Yatra 2024 is falling on July 7 this year, and devotees of Lord Jagannath will get to witness Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra on the same day.

Nabajouban Darshan Significance and Rituals

On the day of Nabajouban Darshan, the temple priests perform special rituals and ceremonies. Devotees offer prayers and receive darshan of the rejuvenated deities, which is considered highly auspicious. The Nabajouban Darshan event symbolises hope as the deities, representing the divine force, prepare to embark on their annual journey during the Rath Yatra. The event draws thousands of pilgrims and devotees from all over the world.

As per several media reports, in the wake of such a rare convergence, a large number of devotees are expected to visit the Srimandir, the abode of Lord Jagannath. Keeping this in mind, the SJTA has decided not to allow devotees to have ‘Nabajouban Darshan.’ The temple administration said such a restriction was imperative to ensure the smooth conduct of Rath Yatra rituals in view of a challenging situation this time.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 05, 2024 02:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).