Chhappan Bhog

Chappan Bhog (छप्पन भोग) means an offering of 56 food items made to Hindu deities, especially Lord Krishna and Lord Jagannath. According to tradition, Krishna’s mother Yashoda fed him eight meals a day, but when Krishna lifted Govardhan Hill for seven days and nights to protect villagers from Lord Indra’s storm, he did not eat during that time. To make up for the missed meals (8 meals × 7 days = 56), devotees prepared and offered 56 different dishes in devotion and gratitude, which became known as Chappan Bhog. This tradition is especially prominent in temples like the Jagannath Temple in Puri and symbolizes love, abundance, and complete devotion to God.