June 2, 2024 12:00 am
Celebration of Jalakrida Ekadashi at Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, Delhi
Jalakrida Ekadashi, a significant observance in the Hindu calendar, was celebrated with great fervor and devotion at the Shri Jagannath Mandir in Thyagraj Nagar, Delhi. This auspicious day, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, marks a period of spiritual reflection, fasting, and prayers for devotees seeking blessings and the divine grace of the Lord.
The festivities at Shri Jagannath Mandir began early in the morning with the Mangal Aarti, the first ritual of the day, which saw a large number of devotees gathering to witness and participate in the serene and melodious chanting of hymns. The temple premises were beautifully decorated with flowers and lights, creating an atmosphere of sanctity and celebration.
One of the highlights of the day was the Abhishekam, a ceremonial bath of the deities with sacred substances like milk, honey, yogurt, and ghee. This ritual is believed to purify and energize the idols, symbolizing the bathing of Lord Vishnu. The priests, adorned in traditional attire, conducted the rituals with utmost devotion and precision, enhancing the spiritual ambiance.
The temple also organized a special Jalakrida (water play) event, commemorating the playful water activities of Lord Krishna with His devotees. A temporary water setup was created within the temple grounds, where devotees, especially children, participated in joyous water games, symbolizing the divine leelas (playful acts) of the Lord. This activity not only brought joy but also reinforced the spiritual essence of the festival.
Throughout the day, devotees engaged in bhajans (devotional songs), kirtans (chants), and recitation of scriptures, immersing themselves in the divine presence of Lord Jagannath. The temple’s ambiance echoed with the soulful melodies of devotion, creating a profound sense of unity and spiritual upliftment among the attendees.
The evening saw the grand Vishnu Sahasranama Path, the chanting of the thousand names of Lord Vishnu, followed by a discourse on the significance of Jalakrida Ekadashi by a revered spiritual leader. The discourse enlightened the devotees on the importance of fasting, charity, and devotion on this day, emphasizing the benefits of observing Ekadashi for spiritual growth and liberation from worldly attachments.
The celebration concluded with the Maha Aarti, a grand and elaborate ritual that involved waving lit lamps in front of the deities, accompanied by the ringing of bells and blowing of conch shells. This final act of worship left the devotees with a sense of peace and fulfillment, reinforcing their faith and devotion.
Jalakrida Ekadashi at Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, Delhi, was a day of profound spiritual significance, joy, and communal harmony. The celebration brought together devotees from different walks of life, united in their love and reverence for Lord Vishnu, and offered a beautiful blend of devotion, tradition, and festivity.
