Byanjan dwadashi .
Byanjana Dwadashi, also known as Byanjana Dwadasi, is a significant festival observed primarily by the followers of Lord Jagannath in Odisha. It falls on the 12th day (Dwadashi) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase) in the month of Margashirsha. The festival is closely associated with the preparation and offering of 56 types of food items, collectively called the Chhappan Bhog, to Lord Jagannath. This tradition symbolizes devotion, gratitude, and the celebration of the abundance of nature's bounty. The legend behind Byanjana Dwadashi revolves around the epic Mahabharata. It is believed that during their exile, the Pandavas, along with Draupadi, faced many challenges, including scarcity of food. Draupadi prayed to Lord Krishna, who blessed her with the Akshaya Patra, a magical vessel that provided unlimited food. The festival commemorates Lord Krishna's divine intervention in alleviating their hardships. The offerings made on this day are a gesture of gratitude to the Lord fo...