Visiting the sacred town of Puri in Odisha was more than just a trip for me; it was a journey into the heart of tradition and spirituality. Among the many rituals that define the unique culture of the Jagannath Temple, the Chhapan Bhog holds a special place in my heart. Imagine 56 different types of food prepared every single day, each one a divine offering to Lord Jagannath. It’s not just a meal; it’s a spiritual experience that left me in awe.
The term “Chhapan Bhog” literally means “56 offerings.” According to legend, Lord Krishna, an avatar of Vishnu, used to eat eight meals a day. When he left his mortal form, his devotees decided to offer him 56 types of food every day, making up for the eight meals over seven days. This tradition continues in the Jagannath Temple, where these 56 items are offered daily.
Chhapan Bhog (The 56 Divine Delicacies)
Now, let’s dive into the delicious details. Here are the 56 items of the Chhapan Bhog, listed in alphabetical order:
1. Ada Pachedi
2. Amba Khatta
3. Anna
4. Arisha Pitha
5. Bata Bhaja
6. Besara
7. Chakuli Pitha
8. Chana
9. Chhenagaja
10. Chhenapoda
11. Chuda Bhaja
12. Dahi Baigana
13. Dahibara
14. Dalma
15. Enduri Pitha
16. Gaja
17. Ghee
18. Ghee Rice
19. Jhili
20. Kadali Bhaja
21. Kanika
22. Kanti
23. Kanti Bhaja
24. Khechudi
25. Kheeri
26. Manda Pitha
27. Malpua
28. Matha Bhaja
29. Matha Puli
30. Mitha Chakuli
31. Mitha Dal
32. Nadia Bara
33. Nadia Chutney
34. Nadiya Chutney
35. Pakhala
36. Podo Pitha
37. Rasabali
38. Saga Bhaja
39. Sag
40. Sajana Khatta
41. Saru
42. Saru Bhaja
43. Sijha Kakara
44. Sijha Manda
45. Tadia Kheeri
46. Mula Bhaja
47. Pakhala
48. Poda Pitha
49. Dahi Pakhal
50. Suji Kakara
51. Kakara
52. Kadamba
53. Pita
54. Bhaja
55. Pitha
56. Sandesh
Witnessing the preparation of Chhapan Bhog was like stepping back in time. The temple cooks, known as ‘Suaras,’ prepare these dishes with utmost purity and devotion. They use traditional methods, cooking in earthen pots over wood-fired stoves. The aroma that fills the air is simply heavenly.
The Chhapan Bhog is offered to the deities several times a day, but the main offerings happen during the ‘Madhyana Dhupa’ (midday meal) and the ‘Sandhya Dhupa’ (evening meal). Devotees believe that tasting this sacred food, known as ‘Mahaprasad,’ brings immense blessings.
Experiencing the Chhapan Bhog firsthand was nothing short of magical. Each item in the Chhapan Bhog has its own unique flavor and significance. As I tasted the Mahaprasad, I felt a connection that was beyond words. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the love and devotion that went into each dish. The Chhapan Bhog is a beautiful blend of tradition, devotion, and culinary artistry that has been preserved through centuries.
This experience has enriched me and left me with a heart full of gratitude and reverence for the timeless traditions that continue to thrive in Puri. If you ever find yourself in this sacred town, don’t miss the chance to be part of this divine feast.
