The Times of India

Rath Yatra 2026: Why do Lord Jagannath and his siblings fall ill for 15 days during 'Anasara' before he gives divine darshan to his devotees? All about the period when the deities are 'healing,' just like human beings

Lord Jagannath and his siblings undergo a 15-day illness period after a sacred bath, a ritual known as Anasara. During this time, the deities are secluded and treated with medicinal pastes and repainted, mirroring ancient quarantine practices. Devotees visit the Alarnath Temple, believing Lord Jagannath manifests there. This tradition culminates in the Navajouban Darshan, preparing the deities for the grand Rath Yatra.