Panchaka

The last five days of the month of Kaartika are traditionally known as the Bhishma Panchaka or the Vaka Panchaka.[1] According to Oriya Ramayana written by Balarama Dasa it is said that if one is capable, one should observe fasting from certain foodstuffs on the Bhishma-panchaka for the pleasure of the Vishnu. The Padma Purana say that one pleases Vishnu and makes spiritual advancement.

Observances

Devotees may offer the following offerings to lord Vishnu: Lotus flower, Bilwa leaves, Sandalwood paste, Jaati flowers and Malati flowers.

Rituals in Jagannath Temple

The main temple at Puri becomes crowded as many people await various alankara of deities. Alankara like Dalakia vesha, Adakia Vesha, Laksmi Nrusingha Vesha, Trivikrama Vesha and finally on the day of Kartik Purnima lord is decorated in Rajarajeswara Vesha which draws people more than one lakh. More prasad are made in the temple to cope with the demand from Havishya vratis (widows staying for the month-long Kartika vrata in Puri).

References

"Millions take holy dip in Orissa to mark Panchaka". Hindustan times, Delhi – via HighBeam Research (subscription required) . 24 November 2007. Archived from the original on 2 February 2017. Retrieved 3 September 2012.

External links

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[1] "Millions take holy dip in Orissa to mark Panchaka". Hindustan times, Delhi – via HighBeam Research (subscription required) . 24 November 2007. Archived from the original on 2 February 2017. Retrieved 3 September 2012.