Jagannath Temple, Puri

Hindu temple at Puri, Odisha, India

"Jagannath Temple" redirects here. For other uses, see Jagannath Temple (disambiguation).

Jagannath Temple, Puri

Religion
Affiliation| Hinduism
District| Puri
Deity| Jagannath
Festivals|

* Ratha Yatra
* Chandan Yatra
* Snana Yatra
* Nabakalebara

Governing body| Shree Jagannath Temple Office, Puri, Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee, Puri
Location
Location| Puri
State| Odisha
Country| India

Location in Odisha

Show map of Odisha

Jagannath Temple, Puri (India)

Show map of India

Geographic coordinates| 19°48′17″N 85°49′6″E﻿ / ﻿19.80472°N 85.81833°E﻿ / 19.80472; 85.81833
Architecture
Type| Kalinga Architecture
Creator| Indradyumna
Completed| 1161 CE[1]
Specifications
Temple(s)| 31
Elevation| 65.47 m (215 ft)
Website
www.shreejagannatha.in

Char Dham

* v
* t
* e

Jagannath Puri

Rameswaram

Dwarka

Badrinath

Part of a series on

Vaishnavism

Supreme deity

Vishnu / Krishna / Rama

Important deities

Dashavatara

* Matsya
* Kurma
* Varaha
* Narasimha
* Vamana
* Parasurama
* Rama
* Balarama
* Krishna
* Buddha
* Kalki

Other forms

* Dhanvantari
* Guruvayurappan
* Hayagriva
* Jagannath
* Mohini
* Nara-Narayana
* Prithu
* Shrinathji
* Venkateshvara
* Vithoba

Consorts

* Lakshmi
* Bhumi
* Sita
* Radha
* Rukmini
* Alamelu

Related

* Garuda
* Hanuman
* Shesha
* Shasta

Holy scriptures

* Vedas
* Upanishads
* Vaikhanasa
* Pancharatra
* Bhagavad Gita
* Mahabharata
* Ramayana
* Harivamsa
* Divya Prabandha
* Gita Govinda

Puranas

* Vishnu
* Bhagavata
* Naradiya
* Garuda
* Padma
* Agni

Sampradayas

* Sri (Vishishtadvaita, Akshar Purushottam Darshan)
* Rudra (Śuddhādvaita)
* Kumara (Dvaitadvaita)
* Brahma (Tattvavada or (Dvaita)), Acintyabhedabheda)

Others

* Ekasarana Dharma
* Mahanubhava
* Pranami
* Radha Vallabha
* Ramsnehi
* Sant Mat
* Vaishnava-Sahajiya
* Warkari

Teachers—acharyas

* Chaitanya
* Chakradhara
* Dadu Dayal
* Harivansh
* Jayatirtha
* Jiva Goswami
* Jñāneśvara
* Kabir
* Madhavdev
* Madhvacharya
* Manavala Mamunigal
* Namadeva
* Nammalvar
* Nathamuni
* Nimbarka
* Srinivasacharya
* Padmanabha Tirtha
* Pillai Lokacharya
* Purandara Dasa
* Raghuttama Tirtha
* Raghavendra Tirtha
* Ram Charan
* Ramananda
* Ramanuja
* Ravidas
* Satyanatha Tirtha
* Satyabhinava Tirtha
* Satyabodha Tirtha
* Satyadharma Tirtha
* Satyadhyana Tirtha
* Samarth Ramdas
* Sankardev
* Swaminarayan
* Sripadaraja
* Tukaram
* Tulsidas
* Vallabha
* Vedanta Desika
* Vidyapati
* Vishnuswami
* Viṭṭhalanātha
* Vyasatirtha
* Vadiraja Tirtha
* Yamunacharya
* Sri Kantha Krishnamacharyulu
* Annamacharya
* Bhadrachala Ramadasu

Related traditions

* Bhagavatism
* Vaikhanasas
* Pancharatra
* Tenkalai
* Vadakalai
* Munitraya
* Krishnaism
* Jagannathism
* Haridasa
* Sahajiya
* Baul
* Pushtimarg
* Gaudiya
* ISKCON
* Ramanandi
* Kapadi
* Balmiki
* Kabir panth
* Dadu panth
* Mahanam

* v
* t
* e

The Jagannath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Jagannath, a form of Vishnu in Hinduism and two of his siblings, Balaram and Subhadra, alongside Sudarshan (the deified form of Vishnu's primary weapon). It is located in Puri in the state of Odisha, situated on the eastern coast of India. As per temple records, King Indradyumna of Avanti built the main temple of Jagannath at Puri.[2] The present temple was rebuilt from the eleventh century onwards, on the site of the pre-existing temples in the compound, but not the main Jagannath temple, and begun by Anantavarman Chodaganga, the first king of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.[3] Many of the temple rituals are based on Oddiyana Tantras which are the refined versions of Mahayana Tantras as well as Shabari Tantras which are evolved from Tantric Buddhism and tribal beliefs respectively. The local legends link the idols with aboriginal tribes and the daitapatis (servitors) claim to be descendants of the aboriginals.[4] The temple is one of the 108 Abhimana Kshethram of the Vaishnavite tradition.

The temple is famous for its annual Ratha Yatra, or chariot festival to honor the three gods, in which the three principal deities are pulled on huge and elaborately decorated raths, or temple cars. The worship is performed by the Bhil Sabar tribal priests, as well as priests of other communities in the temple.[5] Unlike the stone and metal icons found in most Hindu temples, the image of Jagannath is made of spruce wood, and is ceremoniously replaced every 12 or 19 years by an exact replica.[6] The temple is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites. It is also famous because many legends believe that Krishna's heart was placed here, and the material that it is made from damages the heart, so they have to change it every seven years.[7]

The temple is sacred and holy to all Hindus, and especially in those of the Vaishnava traditions. Many great Vaishnava saints, such as Ramanujacharya, Madhvacharya, Nimbarkacharya, Vallabhacharya and Ramananda were closely associated with the temple.[8][9] Ramanuja established the Emar Matha in the south-eastern corner of the temple, and Adi Shankaracharya established the Govardhan Math, which is the seat of one of the four Shankaracharyas. It is also of particular significance to the followers of Gaudiya Vaishnavism, whose founder, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, was attracted to the deity, Jagannath, and lived in Puri for many years.[10][11]

## History

[edit]

See also: Jagannath § Origins

The temple was rebuilt by the King of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, Anantavarman Chodaganga, in the 11th century CE, as described by the Kendupatna copper-plate inscription of his descendant, Narasimhadeva II and Rajendra Chola from the mother side.[1] Anantavarman was originally a Shaivite, and became a Vaishnavite sometime after he conquered the Utkala region, in which the temple is located, in 1112 CE. A 1134–1135 CE inscription records his donation to the temple. Therefore, the temple construction must have started sometime after 1112 CE.[12]

Drawing of Jagannath temple from the book L'Inde des rajahs : voyage dans l'Inde centrale et dans les présidences de Bombay et de Bengale, 1877

According to a story in the temple chronicles, it was founded by Anangabhimadeva II. Different chronicles variously mention the year of construction as 1196, 1197, 1205, 1216, or 1226.[13] This suggests that the temple's construction was completed or that the temple was renovated during the reign of Anantavarman's son, Anangabhima.[14] The temple complex was further developed during the reigns of the subsequent kings, including those of the Ganga dynasty and the Gajapati dynasty.[15]

The temple annals, the Madala Panji, records that the Jagannath temple has been invaded and plundered eighteen times.[16] The temple is believed to have been attacked by Kalapahad, a Muslim convert general, in the 16th century.[17]Also as per scriptures like Bhavishya Malika Jagannath Temple is also about to host a massive fight in between good and evil.[18]Some incidences have already taken place indicating what's imminent.[19]

## Deities

[edit]

Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra are a trio of deities worshipped at the temple. The inner sanctum of the temple contains the deities of them carved from sacred neem logs, known as daru sitting on the bejewelled platform or ratnabedi, along with the deities of Sudarshana Chakra, Madanmohan, Sridevi and Vishwadhatri.[20] The deities are adorned with different clothing and jewels according to the season. Worship of these deities predates the building of the temple, and may have originated in an ancient tribal shrine.[21] The oldest mention of the deity is in the Oddiyana Vajrayāna Tantric text Jñānasiddhi by Indrabhuti, which opens with an invocation of Jagannath.[22][note 1] Sarala Das in his Sarala Mahabharata, presents Lord Jagannath in multiple ways, with an emphasis on his connection to Krishna. Additionally, Sarala Das also refers to Lord Jagannath in association with Buddha, reflecting the diverse religious influences in Odisha’s traditions.[24]

### Legends

[edit]

Statue of Aruna, the charioteer of Surya, the Sun God, on top of the Aruna Stambha in front of the Singhadwara.

According to legends in Madala Panji, the construction of the first Jagannath temple was commissioned by King Indradyumna, a Malava king, mentioned in the Mahabharata and the Puranas.[25]

Indradyumna put up for Jagannath to build the tallest monument in the world. It was 1,000 cubits (457.2 metres) high. He invited Brahma, the cosmic creator, consecrate the temple and the images.[26]

The traditional story concerning the origins of the Jagannath temple is that the original image of Jagannath at the end of the Dvapara Yuga, was manifested near a banyan tree, near the shore in the form of an Indranila Mani, or the Blue Jewel. It was so dazzling that it could grant an instant moksha, so the god Dharma, wanted to hide it in the earth, and was successful. In the Kali Yuga, Indradyumna wanted to find that mysterious image, and to do so, he performed harsh penance to obtain his goal. Vishnu then instructed him to go to the seashore of Puri, and find a floating log to make an image from its trunk.[27][28]

Then, Indradyumna found the log of wood. He did a yajna, from which Narasimha appeared and instructed that Narayana should be made as a four-fold expansion, i.e., Paramatma as Vasudeva (Krishna), his Vyuha as Samkarshana (Balabhadra), his Yogamaya as Subhadra, and his Vibhava as Sudarshana. After this, Vishwakarma appeared in the form of an artisan and prepared images of Jagannath, Balabadra and Subhadra from the tree.[29]

When this log, radiant with light, was seen floating in the sea, Narada told the king to make three deities out of it and place them in a pavilion. Indradyumna got Vishwakarma, the architect of gods, to build a magnificent temple to house the deities, and Vishnu himself appeared in the guise of a carpenter to make the deities, on condition that he was to be left undisturbed until he finished the work.[27][30]

But just after two weeks, the queen of Indradyumna became very anxious. She took the carpenter to be dead as no sound came from the temple. Therefore, she requested the king to open the door. Thus, they went to see Vishnu at work, at which the latter abandoned his work, leaving the deities unfinished. The deity was devoid of any hands. But a divine voice told Indradyumna to install them in the temple. It has also been widely believed that in spite of the deity being without hands, it can watch over the world and be its lord. Thus, the idiom.[27][30]

The Ratha Yatra in Puri in modern times, showing the three raths chariots of the deities with the temple in the background

## Entry and Darshan

[edit]

Non-Hindus (excluding Jains, Sikhs, Buddhists) and foreigners are not permitted to enter the temple.[31][32] Such a rule is believed to have existed since the temple was built, and at present, it often becomes a subject to controversy and debates that have lasted for several decades.[33][34][35] According to Ganeshi Lal, the former Governor of Odisha, foreigners can enter the temple only if he/she can meet the Gajapati servitors and the Shankaracharya, then he/she could also be allowed to witness Jagannath. But, this theory has not wielded influence yet, and continues to be a subject of longstanding debate.[36] The temple is open everyday from 5:00 am to 10:30 pm.[37]

## Cultural integrity

[edit]

Starting from Jagannath himself, history has it that he was a tribal deity, adorned by the Bhils and Sabar people, as a symbol of Narayana. Another legend claims him to be Nilamadhava, an image of Narayana made of blue stone and worshipped by the tribals. He was brought to Nilagiri, the blue mountain, or Nilachala, and installed there as Jagannath, in company with Balabhadra and Subhadra. The images made of wood are also claimed to have their distant linkage with the Vanvasis, or forest dwellers, as a system of worshipping wooden poles. To cap it all, the Daitapatis, who have a fair share of responsibilities to perform rituals of the temple, are claimed to be descendants of the hill tribes of Odisha, also believed to be a close relative of Jagannath. Hence, the beginning of the cultural history of Shrikshetra, known as the cultural capital of Odisha is found in the cultures of Hindu tribes. The three deities came to be claimed as the symbols of Samyak Darshan, Samyak Jnana and Samyak Charita, usually regarded as Ratnatraya, the triple gems of the Jain culture, assimilation of which leads to omniscience and Moksha (salvation).[38]

### Acharyas and Jagannatha Puri

[edit]

All of the renowned acharyas, including Madhvacharya, have been known to visit this kshetra. Adi Shankaracharya established his Govardhan Math here. Guru Nanak had visited this place with his disciples, Bala and Mardana. Chaitanya Mahaprabhu of Gaudiya Vaishnavism stayed here for 24 years, declaring that the love of God can be spread by chanting the Hare Krishna mantra. Vallabha visited the temple and performed a 7-day recitation of the Srimad Bhagavata. His sitting place is still famous as his baithakji, literally translating to his seat. It confirms his visit to Puri.[39]

Some of the pandits who participated became jealous of the young Vallabha, and wanted to test him. The next day was Ekadashi, a fasting day where one must fast from grains. The pandits gave Vallabha rice prasad of Lord Jagannath, for which the temple is still famous. If Vallabha ate it, he would break his vow of fasting, but, if he did not take it, he would disrespect Jagannath. Hence, Vallabha, with all honour and respect, accepted the prasad in his hand. He stood there in the temple, spent the rest of the day and night, explaining the shlokas of the greatness of prasad, and ate the prasad the next morning after sunrise.[40]

The Sikh aarti, Gagan mein thaal, was recited by the first Sikh guru, Guru Nanak, in 1506 or 1508,[41][42][43][44] during his journey, called udasi, to east India,[42][43] at the revered Jagannath Temple, Puri. This aarti is only sung, not performed with any platter and/or lamps, etc.

### Char Dham

[edit]

Bird's eye view of Jagannath Temple

The temple is one of the holiest Vaishnava Hindu Char Dham sites, the four divine pilgrimage sites, the other being Rameswaram, Badrinath and Dwarka.[45] Though the origins are not clearly known, the Advaita school of Hinduism propagated by Adi Shankaracharya, who created Hindu monastic institutions across India, attributes the origin of Char Dham to the seer.[46] The four temples lie across the four cardinal points, or four corners of India, and their attendant temples are Badrinath Temple at Badrinath in the north, Jagannath Temple at Puri in the east, Dwarakadheesh Temple at Dwarka in the west and Ramanathaswamy Temple at Rameswaram in the south. Though ideologically, the temples are divided between the sects of Hinduism, namely Shaivism and Vaishnavism, the four pilgrimage sites are fully Hinduism.[47] There are four abodes in the Himalayas, called Chota Char Dham (lit. "the small four abodes/seats"): Badrinath, Kedarnath, Gangotri and Yamunotri – all of these lie at the foothills of the Himalayas, in the state of Uttarakhand.[citation needed] The journey across the four cardinal points of India is considered sacred by Hindus, who aspire to visit these temples at least once in their lifetime. Traditionally, the trip starts at the eastern end from Puri, proceeding in a clockwise direction, in a manner typically followed for circumambulation in Hindu temples.[48]

## Structure

[edit]

Jagannath during Ratha Yatra, 2011

The temple complex covers an area of over 37,000 square metres (400,000 sq ft), and is surrounded by high fortified wall. This 6.1 metres (20 ft)-high wall is known as Meghanada Pacheri.[49] Another wall known as kurma bedha surrounds the main temple.[50] It contains at least 120 temples and shrines. With its sculptural richness and fluidity of the Kalinga architecture, it is one of the most magnificent temples of India.[51] The temple has four distinct sectional structures, namely–Deula, Vimana or Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), where the triad deities are lodged on the ratnavedi, or throne of pearls. In Rekha Deula style, there is the Mukhashala, (frontal porch), the Natamandapa, also known as the Jagamohan (audience/dancing hall), and the Bhogamandapa (offerings hall).[52] The main temple is a curvilinear temple, and crowning the top is the Neelachakra, an eight-spoked wheel of Vishnu. It is made out of Ashtadhatu, an alloy of eight metals, and is considered sacrosanct.[53] Among the existing temples in Odisha, the temple of Lord Jagannath is the highest. The temple tower was built on a raised platform of stone, rising to a height 65 metres (214 ft), above the inner sanctum where the deities reside, dominates the surrounding landscape. The pyramidal roofs of the surrounding temples and adjoining halls, or mandapas, rise in steps toward the tower, like a ridge of mountain peaks.[54]

### Nila Chakra

[edit]

The Nila Chakra (lit. blue discus) is the discus mounted on the top of the shikhara of the Jagannath temple. As per custom, everyday a different flag is waved on the Nila Chakra. The flag hoisted on the Nila Chakra is called the Patita Pavana (lit. "Purifier of the Fallen"), and is equivalent to the image of the deities placed in the sanctum sanctorum.[55]

The Nila Chakra is a disc with eight Navagunjaras carved on the outer circumference, with all facing towards the flagpost above. It is made up of Ashtadhatu and is 3.5 metres (11 ft) high, with a circumference of about 11 metres (36 ft).[56]

### The Singhadwara

[edit]

The Singhadwara in 1870, showing the lion sculptures with the Aruna Stambha in the foreground

The Singhadwara, which in Sanskrit means "The Lion Gate", is one of the four gates to the temple, and forms the main entrance. The Singhadwara is so named because of two huge statues of crouching lions existing on either side of the entrance. The gate faces eastward, opening on to the Bada Danda or the "Grand Road".[57] The Baisi Pahacha, or the flight of twenty-two steps, leads into the temple complex. A deity of Jagannath known as Patita Pavana, which in Sanskrit means the "saviour of the downtrodden and the fallen", is painted on the right side of the entrance. In ancient times, when untouchables were not allowed inside the temple, they could pray to the Patita Pavana. The statues of the two guards to the temple, Jaya and Vijaya, stand on either side of the doorway.[58] Just before the commencement of the Ratha Yatra, the deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are taken out of the temple through this gate. On their return from the Gundicha Temple, they have to ceremonially placate Goddess Lakshmi, whose deity is carved atop the door, for neglecting to take her with them on the Yatra. Only then, the goddess allows them permission to enter the temple. A magnificent sixteen-sided monolithic pillar, known as the Aruna Stambha, stands in front of the main gate. This pillar has an idol of Aruna, the charioteer of the sun god, Surya, on its top. One notable fact about the Aruna Stambha is that prior to its current location, it was located in the Konark Sun Temple.[59][60] Later, the Maratha guru, Brahmachari Gosain, brought this pillar from Konark.[61]

### Other entrances

[edit]

The Ashwadwara Gate

Apart from the Singhadwara, which is the main entrance to the temple, there are three other entrances facing north, south and west. They are named after the sculptures of animals guarding them. The other entrances are the Hathidwara or the Elephant Gate, the Vyaghradwara or the Tiger Gate and the Ashwadwara or the Horse Gate.[62]

### Minor temples

[edit]

Cluster of minor temples in the southern part of Jagannath temple complex, including the Vimala Temple (extreme right), c. 1890

There are about thirty smaller temples and shrines within the Temple complex where active worship is regularly conducted.[62]There are some temples are considered significant and generally visited before the main temple of Jagannath:.[62] the Ganesha temple near the kalpavata banyan tree, Vimala Temple, Nilamadhaba temple, Gopalaballava temple and Lakshmi temple.

The Vimala Temple (Bimala Temple) is considered one of the most important of the Shaktipeeths.[62] It is located near Rohini Kund in the temple complex. Until food offered to Jagannath is offered to goddess Vimala it is not considered Mahaprasad.[62] The temple of Lakshmi, the consort of Jagannath, has an important role in rituals of the main temple.[62]

There are other shrines dedicated to Kanchi Ganesha, Shiva, Surya, Saraswati, Bhuvaneshwari, Narasimha, Rama, Hanuman.[62]

### The Mandapas

[edit]

The Dola Mandapa in 1890, where the annual Dol Yatra is held.

There are many mandapas, or pillared halls on raised platforms within the temple complex meant for religious congregations. The most prominent is the Mukti Mandapa, the congregation hall of the holy seat of selected literate Brahmins.[63]

## Daily food offerings

[edit]

Main article: Mahaprasad (Jagannath Temple)

Daily offerings are made to the deity six times a day. These include:

* The offering to the deity in the morning that forms his breakfast, and is called Gopala Vallabha Bhoga. It consists of seven items i.e., Khoa, Lahuni, sweetened coconut grating, coconut water, and rice grain sweetened with sugar known as Khai, curd and ripe bananas.
* The Sakala Dhupa forms his next offering at about 10 am. This generally consists of 13 items, including the Enduri pitha and the Mantha puli.
* The Bada Sankhudi Bhoga forms the next offering, consisting of Pakhala with curd and Kanji payas. The offerings are made in the Bhog Mandapa, about 61 metres (200 ft) from the Ratnabedi. This is called the Chatra Bhog, which was introduced by Adi Shankaracharya in the eighth century to help pilgrims share the temple food.
* The Madhyanha dhupa forms the next offering at the noon.
* The next offering to the deity is made in the evening at around 8 pm, known as Sandhya Dhupa.
* The last offering to the deity is called the Bada Singhara Bhoga.[64]

## Shopping in Swargadwar Market

[edit]

Swargadwar Market in Puri is known for its vibrant collection of souvenirs and local handicrafts. Visitors can find a variety of items, including Jagannath murtis (idols), sankhs (conch shells), Pattachitra paintings, seashell crafts, and Odisha handlooms.[65] Bargaining is common in the market, allowing travelers to negotiate prices for unique mementos of their trip.

## External Links

[edit]

* [Delhi to Jagannath Puri Tour Packages](https://bharatbhraman.life/unlocking-the-divine-delhi-to-jagannath-puri-tour-packages/) – A travel experience blog on shopping and souvenirs in Puri.

## Rosaghara

[edit]

Main article: Rosaghara

The temple's kitchen is the second largest in the world.[51][66][67][68] Tradition holds that all the Mahaprasad that is cooked in the temple kitchen is supervised by Goddess Lakshmi, the empress of the temple herself, and that if the food prepared has any fault in it, a shadow dog appears near the temple kitchen, a sign of her displeasure. If the shadow dog is seen, the food is promptly buried and a new batch is cooked.[69] All 56 varieties of food produced are vegetarian and prepared without onions and garlic.[70]

## Festivals

[edit]

Main article: List of festivals observed at Jagannatha Temple, Puri

Ratha Yatra festival in Puri, a painting by James Fergusson

There are elaborate daily worship services. There are many festivals each year attended by millions of people. The most important festival is the Ratha Yatra, or the chariot festival, in June or July. This spectacular festival includes a procession of three huge raths, or chariots, bearing the deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra through the Bada Danda, or the Grand Avenue of Puri, until their final destination to the Gundicha Temple.[71] Others are Pana Sankranti, also known as Vishuva Sankranti and Mesha and Sankranti, in which special rituals are performed at the temple.[72]

### Anavasara or Anasara

[edit]

Main article: Snana Yatra

Every year, the main deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra and Sudarshan, after the holy Snana Yatra on the Jyeshtha Purnima, go to a secret altar, named Anavasara Ghar, where they remain for the next dark fortnight, or Krishna paksha. Hence, devotees are not allowed to view them. So devotees worship at the nearby temple of Alarnath at Brahmagiri, an icon of a four-handed Vishnu, as a manifestation of Jagannath.[73] Devotees get the first glimpse of the deities on the day before Ratha Yatra, which is called Navayouvana. It is said that the deities fall in fever after taking a huge bath, and they are treated by the special servants, named Daitapatis, for 15 days. During this period, cooked food is not offered to the deities.[74]

### Ratha Yatra at Puri

[edit]

Main article: Ratha Yatra (Puri)

Pahandi Bije during Ratha Yatra at Puri

The Jagannath triad are usually worshipped in the sanctum sanctorum of the temple at Puri, but during the month of Ashadha, or the monsoon month, usually falling in month of June or July, they are brought out onto the Bada Danda, or the divinity street, and travel (3 km) to the Gundicha Temple, in huge chariots, or raths, allowing the public to have the Darshana, or the holy view of the deities. This festival is known as Ratha Yatra, meaning the journey (yatra) of the chariots (raths). The Rathas are huge wheeled wooden structures, which are built anew every year and are pulled by the devotees with ropes. The chariot for Jagannath is approximately 14 metres (45 ft) high and 11 metres (35 ft) wide, and takes about 2 months to construct.[75] The artists and painters of Puri decorate the cars and paint flower petals and other designs on the wheels, the wood-carved charioteer and horses, and the inverted lotuses on the wall behind the throne.[76] The huge chariots of Jagannath pulled during Ratha Yatra is the etymological origin of the English word 'Juggernaut'.[77] The Ratha Yatra is also termed as Shri Gundicha Yatra.[78]

The most significant ritual associated with Ratha Yatra is the Chhera Pahara (lit. sweeping with water). During the festival, the Gajapati king wears the outfit of a sweeper, and sweeps all around the deities and their chariots in the Chhera Pahara ritual. The Gajapati king cleanses the road before the chariots with a gold-handled broom, and sprinkles sandalwood water and powder with utmost devotion. As per the custom, although the Gajapati King has been considered the most exalted person in the Kalinga kingdom, he still renders the menial service to Jagannath. This ritual signified that under the lordship of Jagannath, there is no distinction between the powerful sovereign Gajapati king and the most humble devotee.[79]

Drawing of Ratha Yatra, Puri, from the book, 'Account Of The Temple Of Jagannath, 1895'

Moreover, the ruling dynasty instituted the Ratha Yatra at the completion of the great temple around 1150 AD. This festival was one of those Hindu festivals that was reported to the Western world very early. Odoric of Pordenone, a Franciscan friar from Pordenone in modern Italy, visited India in 1316–1318, some 20 years after Marco Polo had dictated the account of his travels while in a Genoese prison.[80][81] In his own account of 1321, Odoric reported how the people put the deities on chariots, and the King, Queen and all the people drew them from the "church" with song and music.[82][83]

### Niladri Bije

[edit]

Celebrated on Ashadha Trayodashi,[84] Niladri Bije is the concluding day of Ratha Yatra. On this day, deities return to the Ratnabedi.[85][86] Here, Jagannath offers Rasgulla to Goddess Lakshmi to enter into the temple.[87][88]

The Singhadwara of the temple at present

### Gupta Gundicha

[edit]

It is celebrated for 16 days from Ashwin month's Krishna dwitiya to Vijayadashami.[89] As per tradition, Madhava, along with Durga, (known as Durgamadhaba), is taken on a tour of the temple premises. The tour within the temple is observed for the first eight days. For the next eight days, the deities are taken outside the temple on a palanquin to the nearby Narayani temple situated in the Dola mandapa lane. After their worship, they are brought back to the temple.[90]

### Nabakalebara

[edit]

Main article: Nabakalevara

Nabakalabera is a ritual associated with Jagannath,[91] which takes place every 8, 12 or 19 years, when one lunar month of Ashadha is followed by another lunar month of Ashadha. Meaning "New Body", the ritual involves installation of new images in the Jagannath Temple and the burial of the old images at the temple at Koili Vaikuntha. The festival is witnessed by millions of people and its budget exceeds ₹41,000,000 (US$480,000).[92] More than three million devotees are estimated to have visited the temple during the Nabakalevara in 2015, making it one of the most visited festivals in the world.[93]

## Management

[edit]

After independence, the Government of Odisha, with a view to getting better administrative system, passed "The Puri Shri Jagannath Temple (Administration) Act, 1952".[94]

Dibyasingha Deba, the incumbent Gajapati king and King of Puri, is the current adhyasevak (chief servitor) of the temple.[95][96] He took the role in 1970 at the age of 17, after the death of his father, Birakishore Deb, then King of Puri.[97]

The backside of the Jagannath temple with the Koili Baikuntha garden in the foreground Shri Dibyasingha Deb, the incumbent Chief Servitor of the Temple

## Security

[edit]

The security at the temple has increased ahead of Ratha Yatra, the homecoming festival of the deities of Jagannath temple. In the wake of terror alert on 27 June 2012, the security forces were increased to ensure smooth functioning of the crowded Ratha Yatra and Suna Besha.[98] As part of the modernisation of the temple premises and surroundings, the temple's security force has been further advanced, such as 44 police platoons with 30 police officers each, and 135 CCTV cameras with advanced face-scanning technology have been installed in the premises, to cater to more pilgrims and visitors and provide them with enhanced security.[99]

## Shree Jagannath Heritage Corridor

[edit]

Main article: Shree Jagannath Heritage Corridor, Puri

The "Shree Mandir Parikrama", also known as the Shree Jagannath Heritage Corridor (SJHC), is a 75-metre-long corridor around the Jagannath temple. It has been built to provide expansive and unobstructed corridors around the Meghanad Pacheri for giving an opportunity to devotees and pilgrims to have better darshan with the Temple, Nila Chakra and Meghanad Pacheri, similar to the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor of the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi. The corridor provides several facilities and amenities for giving pilgrims and visitors a hassle-free and memorable experience, and for strengthening safety and security of the temple and the devotees.[100] Construction began on the corridor after Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and the incumbent King of the Gajapati Empire and of Puri, as well as the adhyasevak, or the chief servitor of the Jagannath temple, Dibyasingha Deba, laid the foundation stone for it in November 2021.[101] It was inaugurated and opened to the public by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and King Dibyasingha Deba on 17 January 2024.[102]

## See also

[edit]

* History of Odisha
* List of historic sites in Odisha
* Jagannath
* Indradyumna
* Char Dham
* Chota Char Dham
* Vaishnavism
* Chanakya
* Guru Nanak
* Kalinga architecture
* Gajapati Empire
* Dibyasingha Deba
* Archaeological Survey of India
* Shree Jagannath Heritage Corridor, Puri
* Konark Sun Temple
* Lingaraj Temple
* Kashi Vishwanath temple
* Chari Kshetra

## References

[edit]

1. ^ a b Suryanarayan Das 2010, pp. 49–50.
2. ^ Chakraborty, Yogabrata (28 June 2023). "পুরীধাম ও জগন্নাথদেবের ব্রহ্মরূপ বৃত্তান্ত" [Puridham and the tale of lord Jagannath's legendary 'Bramharup']. dainikstatesmannews.com (in Bengali). Kolkata: Dainik Statesman (The Statesman Group). p. 4\. Archived from the original on 28 June 2023. Retrieved 28 June 2023.
3. ^ Cesarone, Bernard (2012). "Bernard Cesarone: Pata-chitras of Odisha". asianart.com. Retrieved 2 July 2012. "This temple was built in approximately 1135–1150 by Codaganga, a king of the Eastern Ganga dynasty"
4. ^ Kanungo, Archana (July 2013), Unity in Diversity: The Uniqueness of Jagannath Culture of Odisha (PDF), Bhubaneshwar: Government of Odisha
5. ^ Sharma, Dr Chandrapal (21 July 2020). Ank Chakra : Indian Culture and Basic Numbers. Diamond Pocket Books Pvt Ltd. ISBN 978-93-90287-27-7.
6. ^ Nugteren, Albertina (2010). "Weaving Nature into Myth: Continuing Narratives Of Wood, Trees, And Forests In The Ritual Fabric Around The God Jagannath In Puri". Journal for the Study of Religion, Nature and Culture. 4 (2): 159–172\. doi:10.1558/jsrnc.v4i2.159.
7. ^ Gautam, Mitali (7 November 2022). "Thus Lord Krishna's amazing heart lived on for posterity". The Statesman. Retrieved 13 December 2023.
8. ^ Balaram Mohanty (1979). Introducing Orissa. Konarka Prakasani. p. 84.
9. ^ Swami B. P. Puri (1 August 2017). Guru: The Universal Teacher. Simon and Schuster. p. 297\. ISBN 9781683832454.
10. ^ K. V. Raman (2006). Temple Art, Icons and Culture of India and South-East Asia. Sharada Publishing House. p. 138\. ISBN 9788188934317. "Similarly, places like Srirangam associated with Ramanuja, Udupi (in Karnataka) with Madhvacharya, Pandharpur with the Maharashtra saints like Jnanesvar and Tukaram and Puri Jagannath with Chaitanya Mahaprabhu."
11. ^ Swami Prabhavananda (9 April 2019). The Spiritual Heritage of India. Routledge. p. 292\. ISBN 9780429627552.
12. ^ Suryanarayan Das 2010, p. 50.
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14. ^ Suryanarayan Das 2010, p. 51.
15. ^ Suryanarayan Das 2010, pp. 51–52.
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17. ^ "Chausath Yogini Temple Hirapur – A 9TH CE GEM OF ODISHA". Anuradha Goyal. February 2020.
18. ^ Saha, Saswata (23 May 2024). "Predictions regarding Puri Jagannath Temple mentioned in Bhavishya Malika". utsavapp.in.`{{cite web}}`: CS1 maint: url-status (link)
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21. ^ "Juggernaut of Puri". Retrieved 20 September 2006.
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25. ^ Amalananda Ghosh (December 1990). An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology. BRILL Academic. p. 161\. ISBN 90-04-09264-1.
26. ^ "Sri Jagannath Puri Dham Information – Jagannath". jagannathpuri-info.net. 2012. Archived from the original on 4 July 2012. Retrieved 26 June 2012. "The King wanted Lord Brahma to consecrate the temple"
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38. ^ Barak, Pabitra Mohan (July 2005). "Jainism and Buddhism in Jagannath Culture" (PDF). magazines.odisha.gov.in. Archived from the original (PDF) on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 30 September 2023.
39. ^ "Shrikshetra: A Replica of Indian Culture" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 10 April 2009. Retrieved 8 March 2010.
40. ^ "Shri Mad Vallabhacharya Mahaprabhuji | Shrinathji Temple, Nathdwara". www.nathdwaratemple.org. Retrieved 25 September 2021.
41. ^ "गुरु नानक देव और उनके द्वारा प्रवर्तित मार्ग". Hindustan (in Hindi). 7 November 2011. Retrieved 22 June 2023.
42. ^ a b "Orissa Review – Feb–March 2012" (PDF). orissa.gov.in. Retrieved 12 March 2022.
43. ^ a b "Home" (PDF). 13 November 2013. Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 28 September 2023.
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45. ^ Mahadev Chakravarti 1986, p. 140.
46. ^ Mittal, Sushil (2004). The Hindu World. New York: Routledge. p. 482\. ISBN 0-203-64470-0.
47. ^ Norbert C. Brockman 2011, pp. 94–96.
48. ^ Paul Gwynne 2017, p. 296.
49. ^ "About Sakhigopal". samsepuja.in. 2012. Archived from the original on 24 February 2015. Retrieved 26 June 2012. "The outermost is called 'Meghanad Pacheri' which has a length of 650ft from east to west and breadth of 644ft from north to south direction. The height of Meghanad Pacheri is 20ft and thickness of 6ft"
50. ^ "Lord Jagannath:Inside the temple of the lord, Jagannath Puri, Jagannath Temple, Orissa". orissa.oriyaonline.com. 2012. Archived from the original on 27 May 2012. Retrieved 26 June 2012. "and kurma Bedha (the inner wall) or the inner enclosure of the Jagannath temple i"
51. ^ a b "Sri Jagannath". Archived from the original on 24 July 2008. Retrieved 12 September 2006.
52. ^ "Jagannath Temple, India – 7 wonders". 7wonders.org. 2012. Archived from the original on 12 June 2012. Retrieved 2 July 2012. "The temple is divided into four chambers: Bhogmandir, Natamandir, Jagamohana and Deul"
53. ^ "Architecture of Jagannath Temple, Jagannath Puri Architecture, Puri Jagannath Temple India". orissatourism.org. 2012. Archived from the original on 12 October 2012. Retrieved 2 July 2012. "wheel on top of the Jagannath Temple made of an alloy of eight metals (astadhatu). It is called the Nila Chakra (Blue Wheel)"
54. ^ "Jagannath Temple, Orrisa". Archived from the original on 17 May 2008. Retrieved 20 September 2006.
55. ^ "Jagannatha's British 'Guardian'" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 3 March 2016. Retrieved 15 August 2014.
56. ^ "Nilachakra is now repairing by Archaeological Survey of India — PURIWAVES". 15 July 2010. Archived from the original on 12 March 2016.
57. ^ "About Temple – Devotee Care Center". devoteecare.fullorissa.com. 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2012. "Two colossal lions flank the Purba Dwara (Eastern Gate) also known as Singha Dwara. This is a mini tower and the main entrance to the temple"[dead link‍]
58. ^ "Sri Jagannath Temple". Archived from the original on 24 July 2008. Retrieved 20 September 2006.
59. ^ "Main Temple Complex – Sun Temple, Konarak – Archaeological Survey of India". asi.nic.in. 2011. Archived from the original on 8 November 2012. Retrieved 5 October 2012. "To the front of the eastern staircase of the porch, once stood the free-standing chlorite pillar, the dhvaja-stambha, with Aruna, the charioteer of Surya as the crowning element"
60. ^ "Aruna Stambha | PURIWAVES". puriwaves.nirmalya.in. 2012. Archived from the original on 5 June 2013. Retrieved 5 October 2012. "this Pillar was a part of Sun Temple Of Konark and was located in front of Sun Temple"
61. ^ Behera, Prajna Paramita (2004). "The Pillars of Homage to Lord Jagannatha" (PDF). Orissa Review. Archived from the original (PDF) on 22 February 2014. Retrieved 5 October 2012.
62. ^ a b c d e f g "THE TEMPLE OF JAGANNATHA" (PDF). Official site of Jagannath temple. Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri. Archived from the original (PDF) on 30 May 2013. Retrieved 25 November 2012.
63. ^ "JAGANNATH TEMPLE, SANCTUARIES, MANDAPS OF LORD JAGANNATH TEMPLE PURI". jagannath.orissaculture.com. 2009. Archived from the original on 11 July 2012. Retrieved 26 June 2012. "It is allowed only for Sankaracharya, Brahmins of 16 sasans and for Jhulan yatra."
64. ^ "Rituals of LORDS". jagannath.nic.in. Archived from the original on 9 December 2012. Retrieved 25 December 2012. "This is the last bhoga of the day."
65. ^ "Shopping in Puri". Odisha Tourism. Retrieved 30 March 2025.
66. ^ Karan, Jajati (2009). "God's own kitchen vies for no record – India News – IBNLive". ibnlive.in.com. Archived from the original on 28 February 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2012. "the Jagannath temple in Puri has the world's largest kitchen that can feed more than one lakh people at a time"
67. ^ "The Sampradaya Sun – Independent Vaisnava News – Feature Stories – June 2011". harekrsna.com. 2011. Retrieved 26 June 2012. "Not only is it the largest temple kitchen in the world"
68. ^ "Amazing Orissa". nilachakra.org. 2011. Archived from the original on 26 March 2011. Retrieved 2 July 2012. "The Jagannath temple kitchen at Puri is reputed to be the largest kitchen in the world"
69. ^ "Kitchen of Lord Jagannath – Devotee Care Center". devoteecare.fullorissa.com. 2012. Archived from the original on 18 March 2015. Retrieved 28 September 2012. "If the dog is seen, all the food must be buried and prepared again"
70. ^ "Jagannath Temple, Jagannath Puri, Jagannath Temple Puri, Jagannath Temple of Puri, Jagannath Temple Odisha, Jagannath Temple Orissa". visitodisha.net. 2012. Archived from the original on 26 September 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2012. "The Prasad is prepared in a very traditional way, without using onion, garlic, chillies"
71. ^ "Jagannath Temple at Puri". Retrieved 20 September 2006.
72. ^ "Festivals of lord jagannath, puri festivals". fullorissa.com. 2010. Archived from the original on 24 May 2015. Retrieved 16 May 2012. "Pana Sankranti or Mahabishuba sankranti:"
73. ^ "Alarnatha – Articles – Jagannath Dham". jagannathdham.com. 2012. Retrieved 16 May 2012. "peoples believe that Lord Jagannath during this time manifests as Alarnath Dev,"
74. ^ "Festivals of Lord Sri Jagannath". nilachakra.org. 2010. Archived from the original on 22 October 2012. Retrieved 16 May 2012. "suffer from fever on the account of elaborate bath and for that they are kept in dietary provisions (No cooked food is served) and are nursed by the Daitas"
75. ^ O. M. Starza 1993, p. 16.
76. ^ Das 1982, p. 40.
77. ^ "Juggernaut-Definition and Meaning". Merriam Webster Dictionary. Retrieved 28 November 2012.
78. ^ Patra, Avinash (23 June 2011). Origin & Antiquity of the Cult of Lord Jagannath. Oxford University Press. p. 8.
79. ^ Karan, Jajati (4 July 2008). "Lord Jagannath yatra to begin soon". IBN Live. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 28 November 2012.
80. ^ O. M. Starza 1993, p. 133.
81. ^ Partha Mitter 1992, p. 3.
82. ^ O. M. Starza 1993, p. 129.
83. ^ Das 1982, p. 48.
84. ^ "Festivals of Lord Sri Jagannath". nilachakra.org. 2010. Archived from the original on 22 October 2012. Retrieved 3 July 2012. "NILADRI BIJE – Celebrated on 13th day of bright fortnight of Asadha."
85. ^ "Ocean of devotees on Grand road to witness Sunavesh". news.oneindia.in. 2012. Retrieved 3 July 2012. "entering in to the sanctum sanctorum popularly called Niladri Bije"
86. ^ "Niladri Bije – Lord Jagannath Returning to Shree Mandir | PURIWAVES". puriwaves.nirmalya.in. 2012. Retrieved 3 July 2012. "'Niladri Bije', the return journey to Shree Mandir. It is the welcome festival of Lord Jagannath to Shree Mandir"
87. ^ "Lord Jagannath placates angry Mahalakshmi, reenters temple". The Pioneer. India. 2012. Retrieved 3 July 2012. "Jagannath then offers Mahalakshmi rasgullas to placate her and to forgive him"
88. ^ "Rasagola Dibasa: Day Lord Jagannath offered Goddess Laxmi Rasgulla to please her". India Today. 7 July 2017. Retrieved 30 September 2023.
89. ^ Panda, Namita (11 October 2010). "The Telegraph – Calcutta (Kolkata) | Gupta Gundicha attracts devotees". The Telegraph. Calcutta, India. Archived from the original on 19 June 2012. Retrieved 20 December 2012. "Beginning from Ashwina Krishna dwitiya to the last day of Dusherra,"
90. ^ "Gupta Gundicha in Srikhetra – Start of Durga Madhab worshiping | PURIWAVES". puriwaves.nirmalya.in. Retrieved 20 December 2012. "The Vimanbadu servants ( who carry the chariot) carry Sri Durga – Madhab ( Sri Jagannath & Jaya Durga ) in a chariot to the temple of Narayani at Dolamandap Sahi."
91. ^ "Showing posts with label Jagannatha Nabakalebara". Divine Chariots. Archived from the original on 9 August 2019.
92. ^ "Puri gearing up for 2015 Nabakalebar". The Pioneer. India. 2011. Archived from the original on 14 July 2014. Retrieved 4 January 2013. "Nabakalebar ritual of Lord Jagannath to be held in 2015,"
93. ^ "Plans afoot to manage Nabakalebar crowd". The Times of India. 12 July 2014. Retrieved 13 July 2014.
94. ^ Manti, J.C. (2007). The Saga of Jagannatha and Badadeula at Puri. Sarup & Sons. p. 100\. ISBN 9788176257473. Retrieved 1 July 2015.
95. ^ "Jagannath temple servitors oppose untimely ISKON Rathyatra". news.oneindia.in. 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2012. "Gajapati King, who is considered as the chief servitor of the temple"
96. ^ "Lord Jagannath:Sevayats, complete list of servitors of Lord Jagannath, Jagannath Puri, Jagannath Temple, Orissa". orissa.oriyaonline.com. Archived from the original on 2 November 2012. Retrieved 28 September 2012. "The Gajapati (The King of Puri) is treated as the first and foremost Servitor of the Temple"
97. ^ "I can walk and not take the palanquin'". The Times of India. 2011. Archived from the original on 16 February 2013. Retrieved 13 January 2013. "I ascended the throne in July 1970 when my father Gajapati Birakishore Deb died in the midst of the car festival. I was then only 17"
98. ^ "Terror alert in Puri, security tightened". The Times of India. 27 June 2012.
99. ^ Mohapatra, Debabrata (12 January 2024). "Iconic Puri Jagannath corridor equipped with advanced CCTV facial recognition cover". The Times of India. Retrieved 15 January 2024.
100. ^ "About Shreemandira Parikrama". Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration. Retrieved 15 January 2024.
101. ^ "Foundation stone laid for Rs 331 cr heritage corridor project in Puri". ET Infra. 17 November 2021. Retrieved 15 January 2024.
102. ^ Mohanty, Debabrata (17 January 2024). "Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik inaugurates Jagannath temple corridor project". Hindustan Times. Retrieved 18 January 2024.

## Notes

[edit]

1. ^ Pranipatya Jagannatham Sarvajina Vararchitam. Sarva Buddha Mayam Siddhi Vyapinam Gaganopamam.[23]

### Bibliography

[edit]

* Avinash Patra (2011). Origin & Antiquity of the Cult of Lord Jagannath. Oxford University Press.
* Das, J. P. (1982). Puri Paintings: The Chitrakara and His Work. Prafulla. ISBN 978-81-901589-7-8.
* Mahadev Chakravarti (1986). The Concept of Rudra-Śiva Through the Ages. Motilal Banarsidass. ISBN 978-81-208-0053-3.
* Norbert C. Brockman (2011). Encyclopedia of Sacred Places. California: ABC-CLIO. ISBN 978-1-59884-655-3.
* O. M. Starza (1993). The Jagannatha Temple at Puri: Its Architecture, Art, and Cult. BRILL. ISBN 90-04-09673-6.
* Partha Mitter (1992). Much Maligned Monsters: A History of European Reactions to Indian Art. University of Chicago Press. ISBN 978-0-226-53239-4.
* Paul Gwynne (2017). World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction. Wiley. ISBN 978-1-118-97228-1.
* Suryanarayan Das (2010). Lord Jagannath. Sanbun. ISBN 978-93-80213-22-4.

## External links

[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Jagannath Temple, Puri.

Wikiquote has quotations related to Jagannath Temple, Puri.

Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Jagannath Temple.

* Puruṣottama-kṣetra-māhātmya, Skanda Purana
* Official website
* Sri Jagannath Temple – Jagannath Dharma (Official website of the Puri district administration)
* Street View around Jagannath Temple

* v
* t
* e

Jagannath worship

Deities|

* Jagannath
* Balabhadra
* Subhadra
* Sudarshana Chakra

Temples|

| Odisha|

* Puri
* Gundicha
* Baripada
* Gunupur
* Koraput
* Nayagarh
* Bhubaneswar
* Kendrapara
* Chhatia Bata
* Dharakote
* Patali Srikhetra
* Barbil

|

Rest of India|

* Agartala
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Abroad|

* Comilla
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* 2015
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Texts|

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Devotees|

* Indradyumna
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* Madhavi Pattanayak
* Dinakrushna Das
* Banamali Dasa
* Upendra Bhanja
* Kabisurjya Baladeba Ratha
* Gopalakrusna Pattanayaka

See also|

* Odissi music
* Gahana Vije
* Mahaprasad
* Nilachal
* Nila Chakra
* Neela Madhava
* Samkha Kshetra
* Shri Jagannath Temple Act, 1955
* ISKCON

* Category

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Andhra Pradesh|

* Ahobilam
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* Vishnupad Temple, Gaya

Gujarat|

* Dwarka

Karnataka|

* Shivanasamudra
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Kerala|

* Thiruvananthapuram
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* Varkala

Maharashtra|

Pandharpur

Nepal|

* Baraha Kshetra
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* Muktinath

Odisha|

* Puri

Tamil Nadu|

* Thirumeyyam
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* Thiru Kavith Thalam
* Thiru Adhanoor
* Thirupullabhoothangudi
* Thirukkudandhai
* Tirucherai
* Thirunandipura Vinnagaram
* ThiruNaraiyoor
* Thiruvinnagar
* Thiruvelliyangudi
* Thirukkanamangai
* Thirukkkannapuram
* Thirukkandiyur
* Srirangam
* Thirukkozhi
* Thirukkarambanoor
* Thiruvellarai
* Tiruchirapalli
* Thirupper Nagar
* Thiruvanthipuram
* Thiruvaramangai
* Thirukkurungudi
* Srivaikundam
* Thiruvaragunamangai
* Thiruppulingudi
* Thirukkurugoor
* Thirutthulaivillimangalam
* Thirukkoloor
* Tirukulandhai
* Thentirupperai
* Thiruvattaru
* Thiruvanparisaram
* Gunaseelam
* Kancheepuram Pacchaivannapperumal Temple

Telangana|

* Bhadrachalam
* Yadadri
* Kuchadri
* Birla Mandir, Hyderabad
* Mattapalli
* Dharmapuri

Uttar Pradesh|

* Naimisaranya
* Mathura
* Gokul
* Ayodhya

Uttarakhand|

* Devprayag
* Thiruppirithi
* Badrinath
* Vishnuprayag
* Panch Prayag

Other|

* Pancharanga Kshetrams

* v
* t
* e

Krishna

Forms|

* Bala Krishna
* Gopala-Krishna
* Govinda
* Jagannath
* Radha Krishna
* Shrinathji
* Vāsudeva-Krishna
* Vithoba
* Other names

Consorts|

* Radha
* Ashtabharya
* Rukmini
* Satyabhama
* Jambavati
* Kalindi
* Nagnajiti
* Mitravinda
* Lakshmana
* Bhadra
* Other 16000 - 16100 Junior wives
* Rohini

Other relatives|

* Aniruddha
* Arjuna
* Balarama
* Devaki
* Kamsa
* Kunti
* Nanda
* Pradyumna
* Samba
* Subhadra
* Ugrasena
* Vasudeva
* Yashoda
* More

Worship|

* Sects
* Krishnaism
* Vaishnavism
* Festivals
* Krishna Janmashtami
* Gita Mahotsav
* Holi
* Pilgrimage circuits
* 48 Kos Parikrama of Kurukshetra
* Vraja Parikrama

Holy sites|

* Associated with Krishna's life
* Mathura
* Gokul
* Govardhan Hill
* Vrindavan
* Dvaraka
* Kurukshetra
* Jyotisar
* Bhalka
* Other sites:
* Guruvayur
* Nathdwara
* Pandharpur
* Puri
* Udupi

Epigraphy|

* Hathibada Ghosundi
* Heliodorus pillar
* Mora Well
* Naneghat
* Vasu Doorjamb

Texts|

* Bhagavata Purana
* Gita Govinda
* Mahabharata
* Bhagavad Gita
* Krishna's role
* Brahma Samhita
* Uddhava Gita

See also|

* Svayam Bhagavan
* Avatar
* Dashavatara
* Vishnu
* Guru–shishya tradition

* v
* t
* e

Hindu temples in Odisha

Bhubaneswar

| Shiva temples|

* Aisanyesvara Siva Temple
* Akhadachandi Temple
* Astasambhu Siva Temples
* Baitala Deula
* Belesvara Shiva Temple
* Bhima Kunda
* Bhringesvara Siva Temple
* Bhrukutesvar Siva Temple
* Brahmeswara Temple
* Byamokesvara Temple
* Chakreshvari Siva Temple
* Champakesvara Siva Temple
* Chandrasekhara Mahadeva Temple
* Chintamanisvara Siva Temple
* Devasabha Temple
* Dishisvara Siva Temple
* Gangesvara Siva Temple
* Gosagaresvar Siva Temple
* Jaleswar Siva Temple Precinct
* Kalika Siva Temple
* Kapilesvara Siva Temple
* Kedareswar Temple
* Labesvara Siva Temple
* Ladu Baba Temple
* Lakhesvara Siva Temple
* Lingaraja Temple
* Madneswar Siva Temple
* Mangalesvara Siva Temple
* Manibhadresvara Temple – II
* Mukteswar Temple
* Nagesvara Temple, Bhubaneswar
* Pabaneswara Temple
* Papanasini Siva Temple
* Parsurameswara Temple
* Purvesvara Siva Temple
* Rajarani Temple
* Rameshwar Deula
* Sarvatresvara Siva Temple
* Siddhesvara Siva Temple
* Subarnesvara Siva Temple
* Suka Temple
* Sukutesvara Temple
* Svapnesvara Siva Temple
* Talesvara Siva Temple
* Tirthesvara Siva Temple
* Uttaresvara Siva Temple
* Yameshwar Temple

|

Vishnu temples|

* Ananta Vasudeva Temple
* Bharati Matha Temple
* Gandhi Garabadu Precinct Vishnu Temple
* Ram Mandir, Bhubaneswar
* Vishnu Temple, Bhubaneswar

Shakti temples|

* Chausath Yogini Temple, Hirapur
* Parvati Temple, Odisha

Other temples|

* Brahma Temple, Bindusagar
* Hanuman Temple, Kedara-Gouri
* Sivatirtha Matha

Cuttack district

| Shiva temples|

* Chateshwar Temple
* Dhabaleswar Temple
* Simhanath Temple

|

Vishnu temples|

* Madhava Temple

Shakti temples|

* Bhattarika Temple
* Charchika Temple
* Cuttack Chandi Temple
* Durga Temple, Baideshwar
* Durga Temple, Motia

Other temples|

* Brahma Temple, Niali

Puri district

| Shiva temples|

* Beleswar Temple
* Lokanatha Temple
* Markandeshwar Temple

|

Vishnu temples|

* Alarnatha Mandira
* Chakra Narasimha Temple
* Gundicha Temple
* Jagannath Temple, Puri
* Narasimha Temple, Puri
* Sakhigopal Temple

Shakti temples|

* Bata Mangala Temple
* Maa Mangala Mandir, Kakatpur
* Mausi Maa Temple
* Ramachandi Temple
* Varahi Deula, Chaurasi
* Vimala Temple

Sun temples|

* Konark Sun Temple

Other temples|

* Govardhan Math
* Emar Matha

Western Odisha

| Shiva temples|

* Kosaleswara temple
* Leaning Temple of Huma

|

Vishnu temples|

* Nrusinghanath Temple
* Patali Srikhetra

Shakti temples|

* Lankeswari Temple
* Samleswari Temple
* Sureswari temple

Other temples|

* Harishankar Temple
* Sasisena Temple

Rayagada district

| Shiva temples|

* Bhimashankar
* Chatikona
* Nilakantheswar Temple
* Pataleswar

|

Vishnu temples|

* Jagannath Temple, Gunupur
* Jagannath Temple, Rayagada
* Laxminarayan Temple, Therubali

Shakti temples|

* Maa Markama Temple
* Majhighariani Temple

Other

| Shiva temples|

* Ajaikapada Bhairava Temple
* Akhandalamani Temple
* Annakoteshvara Temple
* Bhuvaneshwar Temple, Boudh
* Chandaneswar Temple
* Gupteswar Cave
* Godhaneswar temple
* Indralath Temple
* Kapilash Temple
* Murga Mahadeva Shrine
* Nilakantheswar Temple
* Panchalingeswar Temple
* Sekhareswar Temple

|

Vishnu temples|

* Anantasaayi Vishnu Temple* Anantashayana Vishnu
* Baladevjew Temple
* Chhatia Bata
* Shri Shri Hari Baladev Jew Bije, Baripada
* Jagannath Mandir, Dharakot
* Jagannath Temple, Koraput
* Jagannath Temple, Nayagarh
* Khirachora Gopinatha Temple
* Lakhmi Varaha Temple
* Narayana Gosain Temple
* Nilamadhav Temple
* Odogaon Raghunath Temple
* Varahanatha Temple

Shakti temples|

* Bhadrakali Temple, Aharapada
* Bhagabati Temple, Banapur
* Biraja Temple
* Ghanteswari Temple
* Goddess Maheshwari
* Kalijai
* Kanaka Durga, Raulapalli
* Kichakeshwari Temple
* Maa Barunei Temple
* Maa Tarini Temple, Ghatgaon
* Maa Ugra Tara
* Maa Markama Temple
* Mahishamardini Temple
* Majhighariani Temple
* Manikeshwari Temple
* Marichi Temple
* Mausimaa Temple
* Metakani Temple
* Narayani Temple
* Saptamatruka Temple
* Sarala Temple
* Siddha Bhairavi
* Tara Tarini Mandir
* Upper Bagh Devi Temple

Sun temples|

* Biranchinarayan Temple, Buguda
* Biranchinarayan Temple, Palia

Ganesha temples|

* Budha Ganesha Temple
* Mahavinayak Temple
* Siddha Vinayaka

Other temples|

* Bhandara Ghara Shrine
* Hanuman Vatika
* Harihara Deula
* Joranda Gadi

* Shakti temples in Odisha
* Shiva temples in Odisha
* Temples in Bhubaneswar

Authority control databases

International|

* VIAF

National|

* Germany
* United States
* Israel

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