• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Chitalagi Amavasya 2024: The revered Chitalagi Amavasya, also known as Chitau Amavasya, is an annual celebration held in the sacred Jagannath Puri Shreemandir, a prominent temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, the esteemed presiding deity of Odisha. This significant festival takes place on the new moon day of the auspicious Shravana month (August), marking a special occasion for devotees and followers. On this day, a distinctive ritual is performed at the Shreemandir, where the forehead of the revered chaturddha murtis (four-fold deities) is adorned with a resplendent golden mark, known as Chita, symbolising spiritual significance and divine blessings. This ancient tradition is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted devotion to Lord Jagannath, attracting numerous devotees and pilgrims to the temple premises to partake in the sacred festivities and seek the Lord's benevolence. This year, Chitalagi Amavasya will be observed on 4th August.

Chitalagi Amavasya 2024: Date

The auspicious occasion of Chitalagi Amavasya is slated to take place on August 4th, 2024, coinciding with the significant day of Sawan Amavasya, marking a sacred alignment of celestial and spiritual energies.

Chitalagi Amavasya 2024: Significance Of This Day

Chitalagi or Chitou Amavasya is a widely celebrated festival across Odisha, observed in every Odia household, particularly in rural areas where it takes on the significance of an agricultural festival. On this occasion, farmers pay homage to their paddy fields, seeking a bountiful harvest. Following a ritualistic bath in the morning, they visit their fields, bearing offerings of cakes, flowers, and milk, and engage in heartfelt prayers, beseeching the land to yield a prosperous crop. This traditional practice underscores the deep connection between the people, their land, and their livelihood, as they seek divine blessings for a successful agricultural season.

On the auspicious occasion of Chitalagi Amavasya, a distinctive ritual is performed at the revered Shrimandir, where the divine foreheads of the sacred Trinity - Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra - are adorned with a resplendent ornament known as 'Chita'. Unlike the traditional Chita made from sandalwood, musk, and bezoar, the deities' Chitas are crafted from exquisite precious gemstones and gold, signifying their divine majesty and spiritual significance. This ritualistic embellishment is a testament to the devotion and reverence bestowed upon the Trinity, amplifying the sacred ambience of the Shrimandir on this special day.

The auspicious occasion of 'Chitalagi Amavasya', also referred to as 'Chitau Amavasya', holds profound significance at the revered Jagannath Temple, the sacred dwelling place of Mahaprabhu Jagannath and his revered sibling deities, Lord Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra. (Image Source: Canva)

Chitalagi Amavasya 2024: Rituals Associated With This Day

The revered deities of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra are adorned with exquisite 'Chitas' made from precious gemstones, specifically the rare 'Brahmajyoti' diamond for Jagannath, blue sapphire for Balabhadra, and ruby for Subhadra. These ornamental foreheads are a permanent fixture throughout the year, except during Snana Purnima when they are removed, and Rath Yatra when they wear Sal-made Chitas. The Chitalagi ritual, performed by Pati Mohapatra and Badagrahi Daita servitors on Chitalagi Amavasya, marks the reinstatement of the gemstone Chitas. This secretive ritual takes place behind closed doors, with the 'Jay Bijaya dwara' entrance shut, and devotees barred from entering the temple. The Chitas are secured to the deities' foreheads using a combination of resin and silk ropes, underscoring the sacred and mystical nature of this ancient tradition.

ALSO READ: Amavasya August 2024: 5 Lucky Plants To Bring Home On Hariyali Amavasya For Success And Wealth

Following the placement of the Chitas on the foreheads of the deities, the sacred 'Mahasnana' ritual is performed, accompanied by the offering of 'Alati Bhoga' and a special delicacy called 'Chitau Pitha' (a rice and coconut pancake) to Mahaprabhu Jagannath. This day holds significant importance in rural areas, where farmers pay homage to their paddy fields, seeking protection from potential harm caused by snails, serpents, and insects that thrive during the monsoon season. Through ancient traditions, farmers appease these creatures, praying for safe passage while working in the fields, thus ensuring a bountiful harvest. This ritualistic practice underscores the deep connection between the natural world, agriculture, and the spiritual realm, as farmers seek divine intervention to mitigate potential threats to their livelihood.

 

(Disclaimer: This is based on general public information. Jagran English does not confirm its veracity. Before adopting any measures, consult an expert in the relevant field.)