Puri: The 800-year-old Devadasi tradition at the famous Sri Jagannath Temple here is on the verge of extinction as there are just two Devdasis left to perform the exclusive rituals.

Anticipating the scenario, the temple administration in the early 90s had attempted to enroll new Devadasis to keep alive the tradition, but the efforts failed due to nationwide protest against the system and also because no girl volunteered.

Among 36 different services (seva) in the 12th century Vishnu shrine here, the rituals performed by Devadasis, locally known as Maharis, was the only category where women were allowed to serve the Lord.

This is the only Vishnu Temple in the country where women were allowed to perform specific rituals other than dancing and singing, said Rabi Narayan Mishra, a researcher.
Mahari seva was the only service where women had a big role to play.