The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is one of the most revered Hindu temples in India and a major pilgrimage site. Dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Lord Vishnu/Krishna), his brother Balabhadra (Balarama), and sister Subhadra, the temple is a key part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit.
Key Features of the Jagannath Temple:
-
Deities:
-
The idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are made of wood and are replaced every 12 or 19 years in a sacred ritual called Nabakalebara.
-
Unlike traditional Hindu deities, the idols have large, round eyes and no limbs, representing a tribal (Daitapati) style of worship.
-
-
Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival):
-
The world-famous Rath Yatra takes place annually in June/July, where the deities are taken in grand chariots from the temple to the Gundicha Temple.
-
Millions of devotees pull the chariots, believing it brings immense blessings.
-
-
Architecture:
-
Built in the Kalinga architectural style by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva (12th century).
-
The temple complex has four main structures: Vimana (main temple), Jagamohan (assembly hall), Natamandira (dancing hall), and Bhogamandapa (offering hall).
-
The Nilachakra (blue wheel) atop the temple is a sacred symbol.
-
-
Mysteries & Unique Traditions:
-
The flag atop the temple always flaps in the opposite direction of the wind (scientifically unexplained).
-
The Prasad (Mahaprasad) is cooked in earthen pots and is considered highly sacred.
-
Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the main temple premises.
-
-
Cultural & Historical Significance:
-
The temple is mentioned in ancient texts like Skanda Purana and Brahma Purana.
-
Adi Shankaracharya established one of his Mathas (Govardhan Math) here.
-
The temple has faced invasions (e.g., by Kalapahad in 1568) but was later restored.
-
Visiting Information:
-
Location: Puri, Odisha, India.
-
Darshan Timings: Typically 5 AM–11 PM, with breaks in between.
-
Best Time to Visit: October–March (avoid monsoon).
-
Rath Yatra Dates: Changes yearly (based on Hindu calendar).
