Table of Contents
Introduction to Chitalagi Amavasya
Chitalagi Amavasya, also known as Chitau Amavasya, is a sacred festival celebrated at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. This auspicious day falls on the new moon (Amavasya) of the Shravana month (July-August). The festival is marked by the divine ritual of adorning Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra with precious gold and gemstone forehead ornaments (Chita).
This year, Chitalagi Amavasya 2025 will be observed on July 24, 2025, making it a highly anticipated event for devotees. The festival holds deep spiritual and agricultural significance, with unique customs followed across Odisha.
Chitalagi Amavasya 2025 Date & Time
- Date: July 24, 2025
- Day: Thursday
- Tithi: Shravana Amavasya
- Ritual Timing: Early morning (before sunrise)
Historical & Religious Significance
Chitalagi Amavasya is deeply rooted in Vaishnavite traditions and is associated with Lord Jagannath’s divine adornment. According to temple scriptures:
- The Chita (forehead mark) symbolizes divine power and protection.
- Lord Jagannath wears a rare Heera Chita (Diamond), Balabhadra wears Neela Chita (Blue Sapphire), and Subhadra wears Manikya Chita (Ruby).
- The ritual is performed by Pati Mohapatra and Badagrahi Daita servitors in a closed-door ceremony.
The Chita remains on the deities’ foreheads throughout the year, except during Snana Purnima and Rath Yatra, when they wear Sal wood Chitas.
Chitalagi Rituals at Jagannath Temple
A. The Sacred Chita Ornament
The Chita is made of:
- Gold & precious gems (unlike the common sandalwood Chita).
- Brahmajyoti Diamond (for Jagannath) – considered one of the rarest diamonds.
B. The Secretive Chitalagi Ceremony
- Conducted behind closed doors at Jay Bijaya Dwara.
- Resin (Oshua) & silk ropes (Pata Dora) are used to attach the Chita.
- Devotees are not allowed inside during the ritual.
C. Mahasnana & Alati Bhoga
After the Chitalagi ritual:
- Mahasnana (grand bath) is performed.
- Alati Bhoga (special offering) is presented.
Chitau Pitha & Other Offerings
A key offering on this day is Chitau Pitha, a rice and coconut pancake. Other traditions include:
- Farmers worshiping paddy fields for a good harvest.
- Offering milk & flowers to appease nature spirits.
Regional Celebrations Across Odisha
A. Farmers’ Worship in Rural Odisha
- Farmers pray to snails (Gandeisuni) to avoid injuries while working in fields.
- Young girls chant prayers for their family’s safety.
B. Harali Kans in Sambalpur
- People believe a witch (Tandei) roams on Amavasya night.
- Mothers draw protective symbols on children and offer Chakuli Pitha.
Mythological Beliefs & Folklore
- The Chita is believed to ward off evil.
- The Brahmajyoti diamond on Jagannath’s forehead symbolizes divine light.
FAQs on Chitalagi Amavasya
Q1. What is Chitalagi Amavasya?
A: It is the day when Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are adorned with golden gemstone forehead marks.
Q2. When is Chitalagi Amavasya 2025?
A: July 24, 2025.
Q3. What is Chitau Pitha?
A: A special rice-coconut pancake offered to Lord Jagannath.
Q4. Why is Chitalagi Amavasya secretive?
A: The ritual is performed behind closed doors to maintain sanctity.
Q5. How is Chitalagi Amavasya celebrated in villages?
A: Farmers worship fields and pray for protection from snakes and insects.
Conclusion
Chitalagi Amavasya is a divine blend of spirituality, tradition, and agriculture. The golden Chita ritual at Puri Jagannath Temple and the regional customs make it a unique festival.
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