Devi Prasad Rajguru (seen in picture with a red and white cloth draped over his shoulder) is one of the three rajgurus (king’s priests). Devi is a journalist by profession. Picture by Sarat Patra

Devi Prasad Rajguru is well known to both the Lord and Gajapati Maharaj, the king of Puri. The 35-year-old is one of the three rajgurus (the king’s priests).

A journalist by profession, Devi is no stranger to tradition. He began his occupation as priest to the king soon after the death of his father.

“I have inherited my family tradition. This is the wish of Lord Jagannath. I am fulfilling the Almighty’s wish. After completing my graduation, I wanted to be a journalist. But I never wanted to escape the duties of my family tradition,” said Devi.

Presently posted in Cuttack and working with a TV channel, Devi has taken leave for nine days. “As soon as I joined the organisation, I made it clear that during the car festival, I should be granted a nine-day leave.”

Devi said that he informed his employer about his traditional rituals and responsibilities.

“I had informed them about my traditional duties and obligations to Gajapati and Lord Jagannath,” he said.

Devi’s role, like that of other rajgurus, is crucial during the snana purnima, rath yatra, the bahuda and all other rites in which Gajapati Maharaj has a role to play.

Even during the rath yatra, the rajguru’s duties begin from early morning. They play a major part in ratha pratisha along with the sevayats of the temple.

“We rajgurus have to perform the rituals associated with Gajapati Maharaja’s Rajabhisekha, the sunia parva and the Maharaja’s anka prachalana, and so on at the palace. We are associated with each and every family ritual of Gajapati.”

Devi explained what traditions he has to follow. “As per tradition, I have to abide by all the rules and regulations of rajnahar. On several occasions, I fail to perform traditional duties of rajnahar because of my profession,” he said.

“Everything depends on Jaga (Lord Jagannath). If he wishes I will be able to perform my duties effectively,” said Devi.

Devi has a three-year-old son, who will also inherit the family tradition.

Besides Devi, there are two other rajgurus.