The Bhavishya Malika, an ancient Odia text attributed to Saint Achyutananda Das and the Panchasakhas, contains prophecies that have intrigued scholars and devotees alike. Among its most compelling predictions is the identification of Dibyasingha Deba IV as the last Gajapati Raja of Puri, a role he has held since 1970 also the book suggest that during his reign, significant cosmic events will unfold, including the end of Kali Yuga and the arrival of Lord Kalki. The prophecy also mentions past events that have already happened and ongoing signs today. Many see his rule as the final chapter of the Puri dynasty.
The Last Raja and His Role
Dibyasingha Deba IV, born Kamarnaba Deba in 1953, ascended the throne at the age of 17 following the death of his father, Birakishore Deba III also he holds the symbolic title of Gajapati Maharaja Divyasingha Deva IV and serves as the Adhyasevaka (chief servitor) of Lord Jagannath. His duties include performing the Chhera Pahara ritual during the annual Ratha Yatra in Puri.
Prophecies in Bhavishya Malika
The Bhavishya Malika prophesies that when Dibyasingha Deba IV takes charge, 5,000 years of Kali Yuga will have passed. This period marks the time when Lord Jagannath will take the form of Kalki, the tenth avatar of Vishnu, to restore righteousness while the book also predicts widespread destruction and the collapse of Dharma, leading to the eventual establishment of Satya Yuga.
Absence of a Male Heir
An intriguing aspect of Dibyasingha Deba IV's lineage is the absence of a male heir while he has four daughters: Dibyajyoti Debi, Debajani Debi, Debika Debi, and Debesi Debi while this absence has led to discussions about the future of the Gajapati lineage and its implications in the context of the Bhavishya Malika prophecies.
Historical and Contemporary Parallels
The text mentions past events that have already occurred, including natural disasters, wars, and political upheavals and many contemporary events also mirror its predictions and celestial signs, unusual weather, and social unrest are interpreted as evidence that the prophecy is unfolding today.
The Last Raja and the Prophetic Legacy
Dibyasingha Deba IV's identification as the last Raja of Puri in the Bhavishya Malika adds a layer of mystique to his role as the chief servitor of Lord Jagannath and whether interpreted literally or symbolically, the prophecy emphasizes moral responsibility, cosmic cycles, and the enduring significance of Lord Jagannath in Odisha also the book remains a central reference point for understanding the spiritual and cultural history of the region.
