- By Kashish Rai
- Mon, 30 Jun 2025 01:42 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of India’s most revered spiritual sites, drawing millions of devotees each year. It stands tall not just as a place of worship, but as a symbol of faith and tradition. One of its most fascinating features is the sacred flag that flies atop the temple. This flag, known as the Patitapabana Bana, always flutters in the opposite direction of the wind a mystery that continues to amaze. It’s believed to represent divine presence and protection. As a part of the daily ritual, the flag at Jagannath Puri temple has to be changed every day!
The flag change ceremony at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, known as Dhwaja Parivartan, is a daily ritual that takes place at sunset. During winter, it’s held around 5 PM, while in summer, it begins at 6 PM. This sacred tradition sees two specially trained temple servitors bravely climb the towering 214-foot spire to replace the Dhwaja, also called the Patitapaban Bana, with a fresh flag.
Have you ever wondered why the flag at Jagannath Puri Srimandir has to be changed not yearly, not monthly, but daily? Let us check out the significance behind this custom and know what will happen if a priest fails to change the flag atop Srimandir every day.
Why Flag Of Jagannath Puri Temple Has To Be Changed Every Day?
The Patitapaban Bana, the sacred flag atop the Jagannath Temple, holds deep spiritual significance. It symbolises Lord Jagannath’s protective gaze over all beings, especially those who feel lost or fallen. The name Patitapaban itself means “saviour of the fallen,” reminding devotees of the Lord’s unconditional grace. This fluttering banner is believed to carry divine energy, and its daily replacement is seen as an act of devotion, ensuring the Lord’s blessings continue to flow over the temple and everyone who comes seeking peace. Changing it daily is believed to keep the spiritual energy of the temple fresh and alive. The ritual reminds devotees that while the Lord is eternal, human offerings must be renewed with sincerity and devotion.
The flag atop Jagannath Temple, called the Patitapaban Bana, is a daily symbol of divine protection. Its mysterious flutter against the wind reflects unwavering faith and Lord Jagannath’s eternal presence. (Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
What Will Happen If A Priest Fails To Change The Flag Atop Jagannath Srimandir For A Single Day?
It is believed that if the flag atop the Jagannath Temple, known as the Patitapaban Bana, is not changed even for a single day, the temple would have to remain closed for 18 years. This belief reflects the immense spiritual importance placed on the daily ritual. For devotees, the flag change is not just tradition but a sacred duty symbolising Lord Jagannath’s presence and protection. It’s a deeply held conviction that the daily offering keeps the temple’s energy alive, and missing it would disturb the divine order that has been followed for centuries with unwavering devotion.
(Disclaimer: This content includes advice providing generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified spiritual or astrological opinion. Always consult a specialist for more information before adopting any measures.)