The Jagannath temple is known for its elaborate rituals and practices, which are steeped in tradition and have been passed down for centuries. One of these practices is Chandana Lagi Besha, which involves the application of sandalwood paste on the body of the deities. The Jagannath temple of Puri is one of the most famous and important temples in India, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.
Chandana Lagi Besha is performed in the months of Baisakha and Jyeshtha, which correspond to April-May and May-June respectively. Beginning with the 3rd day of the bright fortnight of the month of Baishakah ( Akshya Tritya ).This is the hottest part of the year, and the adornment is meant to cool off the deity. As its name suggests, sandalwood paste is applied on the Lord Jagannath to cool him. About half a kilogram of sandalwood paste is prepared in the temple complex to be applied on the idols. After the idols are decked up, the deities are offered some food items appropriate for the summer.
Sandalwood is considered to be a sacred and auspicious material in Hinduism, and is often used in religious ceremonies and rituals. Its sweet scent is believed to have a purifying effect on the mind and body, and is said to help create a calming and peaceful atmosphere. The application of sandalwood paste on the body of the deity is therefore considered to be a form of worship and offering.
Chandana Lagi Besha is performed for a prolonged period of 42 days, starting with Akshaya Tritiya. This highlights the importance and significance of this practice in the Jagannath temple of Puri. During this period, the deities are adorned with various ornaments and dresses made of sandalwood paste, which are carefully crafted by skilled artisans. The sandalwood paste is applied on the forehead, arms, legs, chest, and other parts of the body of the deities, giving them a unique and striking appearance.
Apart from its cooling effect, Chandana Lagi Besha is also believed to have other spiritual and symbolic meanings. The application of sandalwood paste on the body of the deity is said to represent the surrender of the devotee to the divine. It is also believed to symbolize the unity and harmony of all beings, as sandalwood paste is made by grinding the wood of the sandalwood tree, which is made up of many tiny fibers that come together to form a whole.
In conclusion, Chandana Lagi Besha is a significant practice in the Jagannath temple of Puri, which highlights the importance and significance of sandalwood in Hinduism. The practice of adorning the deities with sandalwood paste is a form of worship and offering, and is believed to have spiritual and symbolic meanings. It is a unique and beautiful tradition that has been carried on for centuries, and continues to inspire devotion and reverence in the hearts of millions of people around the world.
