A rare celestial and religious convergence will take place on March 3, as a lunar eclipse coincides with the sacred festival of Dola Purnima, prompting special preparations at the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. According to astrologers, the eclipse will begin at 3:20:17 pm and end after 6:47 pm. As per traditional beliefs, food consumption and cooking will be prohibited starting from sunrise at 6:08 am, nine hours before the eclipse begins.
This overlap has created uncertainty among devotees, as Dola Purnima typically involves deity processions and food offerings. However, eclipse-related restrictions will affect these rituals. To ensure proper observance, a Chhatisha Nijog meeting is scheduled on February 24 to finalize arrangements.
Temple experts have stated that regular morning rituals like Mangala Alati, Tadapalagi, and Abakasa Niti will be performed before the eclipse. Special Grahana attire, Grahana Maha Snana, Suna Besha, and Dolabedi Bije rituals will follow in accordance with tradition. Authorities aim to maintain religious customs while ensuring smooth management of this significant spiritual event.
