How 84 Villages Keep a Century‑Old Ritual Alive at Devbhoj Temple

According to local lore, about 120 years ago the heads of 84 villages in the Devbhoj area came together and swore to allocate a share of each year's produce to Lord Jagannath. This collective vow formed the backbone of the lagaan tradition that endures to this day. Over the decades, the participating villages have consistently contributed aromatic rice and moong beans, treating the offering as a symbolic bond of unity and devotion.

The ritual has become a cultural hallmark, reminding younger generations of their ancestors' commitment to faith and community. Even as agricultural practices modernise, the promise remains intact, reinforcing the temple’s role as a custodian of shared heritage.