A Humble Clarification and Spiritual Appeal to Devotees Regarding Gobinda Dwadashi Samudra Snan
By Lokanath Mishra
As per the sacred Khadiratna Panjika, it is clearly mentioned that in the Mahodadhi (sacred sea) of Purusottam Kshetra, a small (samanya) Gobinda Dwadashi Samudra Snan is to be observed on 28 February 2026, from sunrise till 9:00 PM.
There is no scriptural provision for taking Samudra Snan during Amruta Bela on this occasion. However, devotees may take a Holi bath from 5:35 AM till 9:00 PM on the same day. Among these timings, bathing during the early morning hours after sunrise is considered more spiritually auspicious than bathing during the period from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM, as per traditional belief and scriptural understanding.
It is deeply unfortunate that some individuals are misleading devotees by spreading incorrect information regarding special snan timings and so-called “exclusive” snan arrangements. Devotees are humbly advised to remain alert and rely only on authentic panjikas and established traditions.
It must be clearly understood that in Puri, there is no designated or officially sanctioned Snan Ghat in the Mahodadhi. The vast ocean itself is sacred, and no individual or group holds authority to commercialize or monopolize the holy act of Samudra Snan.
As per the age-old tradition of Purusottam Kshetra, the sacred sequence is as follows:
• First, the Shankaracharya and the learned Brahmins of the Muktamandap take the holy bath.
• Thereafter, the Sevayats and Math Mahantas take their bath.
• It is mandatory for Sevayats and Mahantas to **bow their heads in reverence at the Muktamandap before participating in the ritual.
Any attempt to bypass this sacred order or to project a “special sahi snan” for personal gain is against tradition, against dharma, and against the spiritual ethos of Jagannath Dham. Turning a sacred observance into a commercial activity not only misguides devotees but also diminishes the sanctity of the ritual.
Devotees are lovingly reminded that true spiritual merit lies in humility, faith, and obedience to tradition, not in external show or hurried rituals. Lord Jagannath is Bhava-Grahī—He accepts devotion, not deception.
Let us, therefore, observe Gobinda Dwadashi Samudra Snan with purity of heart, clarity of knowledge, and surrender to age-old dharmic practices, seeking the blessings of Prabhu Shri Jagannath for peace, righteousness, and spiritual upliftment.
Jai Jagannath 🙏