World’s largest ‘paan’ offered to Lord Jagannath at Puri Srimandira on Makara Sankranti today

Puri: World’s largest ‘paan’ is offered to Lord Jagannath at Puri Srimandira in Odisha on the occasion of Makara Sankranti today.

The height of this gigantic paan ranges from one and a half feet to two and a half feet. The preparation of this massive paan is carried out with utmost care and devotion inside the temple premises by the Hadapa Nayak servitors of Srimandira.

Nearly seven kada (bundles) of betel leaves are used to prepare this grand paan (beetle). The leaves are meticulously joined together using cloves, forming the enormous structure.

Aromatic and sacred ingredients such as areca nut, cardamom, camphor, sandalwood, saffron, and other fragrant materials are added to enhance its sanctity.

This special paan is offered to the deity during the Dwiprahara Dhupa (midday offering) ritual.

According to temple tradition, Goddess Mahalakshmi departs for her parental home on Dhanu Sankranti. On the eve of Makar Sankranti, she returns to Shree Mandir adorned with floral garlands,

Makar Chula, Tada Besha, while carrying the giant paan. It is believed that Goddess Mahalakshmi brings various offerings to pacify and please Lord Jagannath, in case he might be upset or displeased during her absence.

Another major highlight of Makar Sankranti is the offering of 84 varieties of traditional food items, which are presented to Mahaprabhu on this auspicious day.