Hera Panchumi “observed at ISKCON’s  Kolkata Rathyatra

By : PARTHA ROY 

Hera Panchumi is a significant and unique ritual in Jagannath tradition. The celebration is held at the Gundicha temple on the fifth day following the start of the Rath Yatra. The terms “Panchami” and “Hera” both allude to seeing.

As per mythology, Ma Laxmi consort of Bhagwan Jagannath  tried to meet Bhagwan Jagannath  at  Gundecha temple  popularly known as ” Masir Bari ” as she was missing Bhagwan Jagannath. However , Bhagwan Jagannath refused to meet Ma Laxmi. Ma Laxmi returned to ” Sri Mandir ” with out meeting Bhagwan Jagannath. It is symbolic unique interaction of love & care amongst divine entities.