Gamha Purnima, Rakhi Bandhan, Badathakura Balabhadra Jayanti
28 August 2026 · Gamha Purnima falls on the full moon of Sravana and is celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Balabhadra — Shri Jagannatha's elder brother, lovingly known as Badathakura (the Elder Lord). On this auspicious day, cattle are ritually bathed and worshipped in gratitude for their service, and siblings honour their bonds through the sacred tying of the rakhi thread. Devotees offer special prayers to Lord Balabhadra and seek his blessings of strength, protection, and brotherly grace.
About This Event
Festival overview
Rakhi Purnima (Raksha Bandhan) celebrates the sacred bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a protective thread (rakhi) on their brothers' wrists, and brothers pledge lifelong protection. At the temple, the occasion is doubly auspicious as it coincides with Badathakura Balabhadra Jayanti — the birth anniversary of Lord Balabhadra (Balarama), the elder brother of Lord Jagannatha.
Special puja and abhisheka are performed for Lord Balabhadra, and devotees celebrate with bhajans, kirtan, and prasadam. The day is an occasion to honour the divine elder brother who represents strength, wisdom, and brotherly love.
Date
28 August 2026
Location
Shree Jagannatha Temple Sydney, Castle Hill
Event timings
7:00 PM – 9:00 PM AEST
Schedule
Event timeline
Schedule details will be announced closer to the event.