What happens to the old idols of Jagannath Temple?

 The Jagannath Temple, located in Puri, Odisha, is one of the most revered and ancient temples in India. It is renowned for its annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival) and its unique rituals, which distinguish it from other Hindu temples. One of the most intriguing aspects of the temple's practices is the process of what happens to the old idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. This process, steeped in tradition and shrouded in mystery, is known as Navakalevara (or Nabakalebara), which translates to "New Body."

Navakalevara: The Renewal of the Divine:

Navakalevara is a significant ritual that occurs typically every 12 to 19 years, aligned with the lunar calendar when the month of Ashadha is followed by another month of Ashadha. During this time, the deities undergo a transformation, symbolizing renewal and the cyclical nature of life and death.

Selection of the Sacred Trees:

The process begins with the search for four sacred neem trees, known as Daru Brahma, which are believed to be the living forms of the gods. This search is not a mere selection but a divinely guided quest. A team of priests and temple officials, led by the Daitapatis (servitors who are considered descendants of the deities' original caretakers), embark on this mission. These trees must meet specific criteria:

• They should be located near a river or water body.
• They must have specific symbols on them, such as a conch shell, lotus, or chakra.
• There should be no bird nests or snake holes on the tree.

The trees are selected in a highly secretive manner, accompanied by elaborate rituals, prayers, and chants. Once identified, a formal request is made to the tree deity, seeking permission to cut it down. The selected trees are then ceremonially felled and transported to the temple.

The Carving of the New Idols:

The logs from the sacred trees are brought to the temple premises, where they are transformed into new idols. This task is undertaken by a specific group of artisans known as the Maharana family, who have been performing this duty for generations. The carving process is done in secrecy within the temple's confines, ensuring that no one outside the designated group witnesses it.

The new idols are carved with utmost devotion and adherence to traditional methods. Once completed, they are given a final touch with colors and ornaments.

The Transfer of Brahma Padartha:

The most mysterious and significant part of the Navakalevara ritual is the transfer of the Brahma Padartha (life substance) from the old idols to the new ones. This ritual, known as Brahma Parivartan, is conducted in the dead of night, away from public view. The exact nature of the Brahma Padartha remains a closely guarded secret, known only to a few priests.

On the appointed night, the Daitapatis blindfold themselves and cover their hands with cloth while performing the transfer. It is believed that direct sight or contact with the Brahma Padartha can have severe consequences. This ritual marks the symbolic death of the old idols and the birth of the new ones, signifying continuity and renewal.

The Fate of the Old Idols:

Once the new idols are consecrated, the old idols are taken to a secret location known as Koili Baikuntha within the temple premises. Here, they are buried in a ritualistic manner. Koili Baikuntha is considered a sacred burial ground where all previous idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are interred.

The burial ceremony is conducted with the same reverence and rituals as the ones performed for human funerals. The old idols are wrapped in cloth, anointed with sandalwood paste, and buried in a seated position. The burial symbolizes the return of the deities to the earth, completing the cycle of life and death.

The Significance of Navakalevara:

Navakalevara is not just a ritual but a profound philosophical statement about the impermanence of life and the eternal nature of the divine. It emphasizes the belief that while forms may change, the essence remains the same. This cyclical process reinforces the concept of rebirth and continuity in Hindu philosophy.

The festival also brings the community together, with millions of devotees flocking to Puri to witness the grand event. The entire town of Puri comes alive with festivities, rituals, and a sense of collective devotion. Navakalevara serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of the Jagannath Temple and its unique traditions.

The Modern Context:

In the modern context, the Navakalevara ritual continues to be a focal point of cultural and spiritual significance. Despite the passage of time and the advent of technology, the rituals have remained largely unchanged, preserving the sanctity and mystery of the process. The Odisha government and temple authorities take meticulous care to ensure that the traditions are upheld, even as they manage the influx of millions of pilgrims.

The environmental aspect of the ritual, involving the careful selection and felling of sacred trees, also highlights the temple's deep connection with nature. In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the need to balance tradition with environmental sustainability, prompting discussions on planting new trees to replace the ones used for the idols.

Conclusion:

The process of what happens to the old idols of the Jagannath Temple is a fascinating blend of ritual, tradition, and spirituality. It encapsulates the essence of Hindu beliefs in renewal, continuity, and the cyclical nature of existence. The Navakalevara ritual, with its intricate procedures and profound symbolism, continues to inspire and draw devotees from around the world, ensuring that the legacy of Lord Jagannath remains eternal.

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