Suna Besha of Lord Jagannath: A Glimpse into Odisha’s Divine Tradition

Discover the divine tradition of Suna Besha of Lord Jagannath. Explore the history behind suna besha, culture behind suna besha, spiritual resonance of Lord Jagannth during ratha yatra.

In the vibrant heart of Odisha, amidst the enchanting chants and the rhythmic beats of drums and cymbals, Lord Jagannath is adorned in one of the most awe-inspiring ceremonies known as Suna Besha. This event is a significant spiritual celebration that also highlights Odisha’s rich cultural heritage with its stunning display of golden ornaments.

The Story Behind Suna Besha

Suna Besha, also known as Rajarajeswara Besha or Badatadahu Besha, is a beautiful tradition where Lord Jagannath and his siblings, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, are decked in gold. This tradition is a core part of the worship of Lord Jagannath and is one of the 13 festivals celebrated annually at the Shri Mandir in Puri.

The tradition started with King Kapilendra Deva (1435-1466 A.D.), a devoted follower of Lord Jagannath. Historical records from the temple show that after a victorious campaign in southern India, where he acquired great wealth, the king began the tradition of adorning Lord Jagannath in gold, recognizing Him as the supreme ruler of Odisha.

Understanding Suna Besha

Suna Besha is celebrated on special days like Kartik Purnima, Dola Purnima, Kumar Purnima, and Vijaya Dashami. The grandest celebration, however, occurs on the 11th lunar day of the Ashadh month during Ratha Jatra, when the deities are dressed in gold on their chariots.

Each piece of ornamentation holds deep meaning, reflecting aspects of the deity’s characteristics and the spiritual significance of the festival. For example:

• Kireet and Shri Payara symbolize royal power.
• Chandra Surjya (moon and sun discs) denote cosmic balance.
• Swarna Chakra and Roupya Sankha (golden wheel and silver conch) represent divine control over creation.

The deities wear up to 138 different golden ornaments, each intricately designed to highlight divine majesty.

Cultural and Spiritual Resonance

Suna Besha not only attracts followers from around the world but also fosters a profound spiritual connection and community spirit. This tradition is more than just a ritual; it’s a vibrant celebration of faith, culture, and craftsmanship.

This ceremony reminds us of Odisha’s rich spiritual roots and the deep devotion to Lord Jagannath. It serves as a spiritual lighthouse, spreading blessings and peace to all who participate. As the golden ornaments cast a sacred glow over the deities, devotees feel a deep peace, comforted by the divine presence in their lives. Suna Besha enriches not only India’s cultural landscape but also deepens the spiritual journey of those who witness this glorious tradition.