During the December 2023 Makar Sankranti celebrations, a 12th-century Puri Srimandir ritual was documented, where the world’s largest paan offering was made to Lord Jagannath.
Constructed by Hadapa Nayak servitors, the huge paan was made of 7 bundles of betel leaves and other fragrant materials. It was said to symbolize Goddess Lakshmi’s return to the temple and her reunion with Lord Jagannath.
The offering was made during the midday Dwiprahara Dhupa ritual along with 84 traditional food items. Crafted by Hadapa Nayak servitors, the giant betel quid—measuring between 1.5 and 2.5 feet—is made using nearly seven bundles of betel leaves stitched together with cloves and infused with aromatic ingredients such as cardamom, camphor, sandalwood, saffron, and areca nut.
According to temple traditions, the offering symbolises Goddess Lakshmi’s return to the temple after visiting her parental home and her effort to appease Lord Jagannath. The preparation takes nearly three to four hours and is offered during the Dwiprahara Dhupa (midday ritual), along with 84 varieties of traditional dishes.
