Jagannath Puri, one of the most significant Hindu Pilgrimages, is a grand temple situated in the state of Odisha in India. This highly revered site is dedicated to Lord Krishna, along with his siblings, Lord Balarama and Goddess Subhadra. All three of the deities are established in the large sanctum sanctorum of the temple. People across the world travel to this sacred shrine in eastern India, just for the sake of a glimpse of this intensely spiritual abode.
As this teerth comes under the holy Char Dham Yatra, its religious significance is doubled for the devotees.
Moving further, in this blog, we are going to explore the lesser-known facts about the rich history and significance of this devotional spot.
Who Built the Puri Temple
The majestic temple of Lord Jagannath, who himself is Lord Krishna or an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, was built by a great ruler, Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, in the 12th century. This King, hailing from the eastern Ganga dynasty, was a true devotee of Krishna Ji, and so he put commendable efforts into constructing an iconic epitome devoted to his ideal.
Some sources reveal that King Anantavarman died before the temple construction could be finished, so his follower Anangabhima Deva also played a role in finishing the Jagannath Temple complex.
Architecture of Jagannath Temple
As we all know, the sacred space of the Jagannath Prabhu features splendid Kalinga architecture, renowned in Odisha. It combines both Rekha and Pidha Deula styles, which makes it a treat to the eye.
To begin with, the main complex consists of four notable structures, including Vimana (Garbhagriha), Nata Mandapa (Dancing Hall), Bhoga Mandapa (Prasad Hall), and Jagamohana (Assembly Hall).
There are four gates for devotees to allow their entrance and exit, which are named after animals, such as:
- Singh Dwara in the east represents the Lions.
- Vyaghra Dwara in the west represents the tiger.
- Hasti Dwara in the north represents the elephant.
- Ashwa Dwara in the South represents the Horse.
All along the walls and gates celebrate intricate carvings and motifs that beautifully adorn them and showcase the symbolic significance of these designs.
Apart from that, you will see around 120 other small shrines dedicated to different gods within the premises, offering a divine experience.
Mystic Story About the Idols
The mystery, or, better be saying, Hindu mythology that unveils the truth about the idols, is really unique in Jagannath Puri.
According to a Legend, there was a king Indradyumna, who was an ardent devotee of Lord Vishnu. In one of his dreams, he was asked to go on a quest for a special kind of Neem wood and carve the idols. He followed the instructions and sent many sculptors to find the log, but no one succeeded. Lord Vishwakarma then appeared in the disguise of a local carpenter and agreed to do the work for him. Later, he presented a condition and requested the King not to see him or let anyone enter the room until he finished making all three idols.
However, failing to subdue his curiosity, the king finally peeked into the room and found that the craftsman was gone and the idols were unfinished, the same as they are in the present. The king went into great worry, but Brahma ji assured him that Lord Vishnu was pleased, witnessing his heartfelt devotion.
Due to this majestic presence of God in the sanctum, millions of devotees come here to seek blessings from the divinity.
Connection with Gundicha Temple
The Jagannath and Gundicha temples share a long history and have been linked to each other since the start of the Rath Yatra. It is believed that the religious site of Gundicha is a residence of the deities’ aunty or Mausi.
During the Chariot festival, all three siblings, on completing their 3 km procession, reach their maternal aunt’s house and reside there for a week.
The connection between these two sites symbolizes the spiritual and religious importance of Puri and a tradition that has been there for a very long time now.
Conclusion
In this blog, we have explored the great Jagannath Puri Temple of Odisha. Being one of the most significant Vishnu Teerths, it is no less than a spiritual heaven for the devotees. The positive energies pilgrims feel in this sacred place are beyond words. To experience the essence of the pilgrimage, you must visit it physically. Here we end this blog. If you have any queries, please reach out to us.
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