🛕 Jagannath Temple – Puri, Odisha

📖 Origin & History

The Jagannath Temple, located in Puri, Odisha, is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India. Built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, the temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (a form of Vishnu/Krishna) along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. It is world-famous for the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), where the deities are taken out in grand wooden chariots.

💡 Did You Know?

🪔 The flag atop the temple always flutters in the opposite direction of the wind.

🥗 The temple kitchen is one of the largest in the world, feeding thousands daily.

🚩 No bird flies over the temple dome — a mystery even today.

🎉 The Rath Yatra attracts millions of devotees from across the globe.

🔁 Timeline

12th Century — Built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.

Medieval Period — Became a major Vaishnavite pilgrimage site.

Colonial Era — The Rath Yatra drew global attention from travelers and writers.

Modern Era — Continues to be a central hub of faith, tradition, and cultural festivals.

🌸 Spiritual Significance

One of the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations.
Symbolizes the universal brotherhood through Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra & Subhadra.
The Rath Yatra represents the journey of the deities to meet their devotees.
The temple rituals emphasize equality and community feeding.

🛕 Jagannath Temple – Puri, Odisha

📖 Origin & History

💡 Did You Know?

🔁 Timeline

🌸 Spiritual Significance

🎯 Quick Quiz

Which festival is the Jagannath Temple most famous for?