Jagannath Anasara 2026: Why Devotees Visit Alarnath Temple Instead of Puri

Why Alarnath Temple Becomes the Centre of Devotion During Anasara

According to centuries-old temple tradition, the deities are believed to fall ill after the ceremonial bath with 108 pots of sacred water on Snana Purnima. They are then taken to the Anasara Ghara, where they undergo traditional herbal treatment and remain away from public darshan. During this period, devotees cannot have darshan of the Holy Trinity at the Jagannath Temple.

Why Devotees Visit Alarnath Temple During Jagannath Anasara

Instead, devotees travel to the Alarnath Temple, located about 25 km from Puri. According to Vaishnava belief, Lord Jagannath manifests as Lord Alarnath (Lord Vishnu) during Anasara, making the temple a major pilgrimage destination. Every year, thousands of pilgrims gather here to seek divine blessings and participate in special rituals.

Famous Kheer Bhog at Alarnath Temple

The temple is renowned for its Kheer Bhog, a sacred sweet rice offering that holds great religious significance. Devotees believe that receiving this prasadam brings peace, prosperity, and divine grace, making it one of the highlights of the Anasara pilgrimage.

Netrotsava Marks the End of Anasara

The Anasara period concludes with the auspicious Netrotsava (Nava Jaubana Darshan), when the rejuvenated deities reappear before devotees. This sacred ceremony marks the end of Anasara and the beginning of preparations for the world-famous Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026.

Alarnath Darshan Before Jagannath Rath Yatra 2026

Until the commencement of Rath Yatra 2026, the Alarnath Temple remains the spiritual heart of Odisha, welcoming lakhs of devotees seeking the blessings of Lord Jagannath during His sacred period of seclusion.

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