Actress Archita Sahu

My bond with Lord Jagannath dates back to my birth. I was born on the auspicious day of Debasnana Purnima when the

Lords take the special holy bath. This day is considered to be the prologue to rath yatra.

The festival has always had a special significance for me. I feel the occasion brings a stream of energy and a sense of happiness throughout the state when the Lord comes out to meet His people and interacts with them. When Lord Jagannath is escorted to His chariot, it appears as if He comes out with a group of friends with His hands around them, just as we do when our friends come to see us off before a trip. His youthful smile and the beautiful crown of flowers (tahia) leave me enamoured.

What I love about the festival is its concept of allowing devotees to merge with the divine. Made with a lot of love and effort, the tahia probably lasts only a few minutes on the Lord’s head as devotees, in a bid to touch their beloved Lord, tear away the flowers as soon as he come out.

These scenes have a mystical attraction to them. I have only watched the rituals on television to keep away from the swarm of people. But for me the television turns into the Lord. As a child, I would imitate my mother and touch the television screen to pay obeisance to the Lord, something I continue even today.

Lord Jagannath has been the guiding force in my life. With His idol in my handbag I feel He is always around to show me the path. In fact, I feel He is just like my mother with whom I can share all secrets confidently, and I am sure that I won’t be despised even if I commit a mistake. Asking for a wish is most convenient with Lord Jagannath as He is a member of every Oriya family, including mine.

As soon as I get the news of an achievement or any sad incident, the face of the Lord appears in front of me and I give Him a big imaginary hug asking for His support at all times. Before the beginning of any project, we pay a visit to the Puri temple.

When the icon of Orissa and pride of our state comes out during the rath yatra, He pulls visitors from all over the world. We are lucky to have the blessings of this grand Lord with us.