Snana Yatra holds the distinction of being the first among the twelve major festivals dedicated to the divine Trinity. According to scriptures, this auspicious day commemorates the birth of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra, making it a joyous occasion celebrated as the Lord's birth festival.
In the scorching month of Jyestha, when the sun's rays blaze with unrelenting intensity, and all living beings desperately seek solace in water, the Holy Trinity, accompanied by Lord Sudarshan, descends from the Ratna Singhasana (the bejeweled throne) onto the Snana Bedi or Snana Mandap, an elevated platform situated in the 'bahara bedha' (outer precincts) of the temple. Facing east and overlooking the Grand Road, this platform serves as the bathing platform for the deities. Here, the divine siblings receive an exalted and sanctified bath, unlike any other in the entire universe.
A notable distinction exists between the bathing rituals of us mortals and the awe-inspiring 'Snana Yatra' of Lord Jagannath. When we cleanse ourselves, we seek seclusion, preferring privacy away from prying eyes. However, the revered deities display a contrasting trait. Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Lord Sudarshan revel in their divine bath amidst an immense gathering of devoted souls. Unlike us, they embrace the open surroundings of the 'Snana Bedi,' sharing their purifying experience with the enthusiastic crowds of worshippers.
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