Lord JAGANNATH as HIS name symbolizes is formed as the conjoint (SANDHI) of the two words JAGAT (Universe) + NATH (meaning Lord of the Universe). Yet, He follows the simple rituals of a commoner, eats his sumptuous CHAPPAN BHOG (56 items devoted by the devotees), takes shower and falls sick. This occasion is celebrated as SNANA YATRA, or the auspicious Shower Ceremony, on the full moon day of the Hindu Calendar JYESTHA.
In the famous temple town of Puri, water from 108 earthen pots are poured over his head, the result of which comes in the form of a bout of fever. He suffers it for several days, taking complete rest in solitude and attended by the RAJ VAIDYA or the Royal Priest. This hibernation phase of the Lord going incognito for several days is called ANASARA, a phase the devotees are not allowed to see the Lord.
Coinciding with just a few days prior to the arrival of monsoon in Odisha, this time is accompanied by stifling heat and humidity. Hence this phase is locally called as ANASARA GULUGULI (muggy) days. The almost static air, pregnant with water vapor and barely moving a leaf on the trees is often unbearable, with hardly any relief on sight. The local populace take solace from a free Sauna for a few days, praying for early advance of monsoon.
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