lakhs of devotees thronged the Gopinath Temple of lord Krishna at Sakhigopal for the famous Radha Pada Darshan (to have darshan of feet of Goddess Radha) on auspicious occasion of Anla Navami on Sunday.
It is believed that a devotee attains salvation after darshan of Goddess Radha in Odia woman attire at the temple especially on the Anla Navami ahead of the five-day Panchuka in the holy month of Kartik.
This is the only day devotees get an opportunity to look at Goddess Radha’s feet, which remain covered throughout the year. It is called the ‘Odiani Besha’ of the goddess.
The devotees were in long queue for hours to enter the temple in the early morning. They also worshipped Anla plants on the occasion.
Elaborate arrangements were made by the Puri district administration for smooth conduct of darshan for the devotees.
After the Anla Navami, Hindu women used to observe Habisha (taking one-time meal a day) during Panchuka till Kartik Purnami to offer prayer to lord Krishna and Goddess Radha near Tulasi Chaura (holy basil planted in small podium in front houses).
The Panchuka concludes with Boita Bandana (sailing of boats) in ponds, rivers and watercourses to remember maritime glory of Odisha and darshan of deities in temples on the Kartika Purnima.