Jagannath Temple

Jagannath Temple Latest News

Three Indian cricket team players visited the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri recently, a day before the second ODI against England.

About Jagannath Temple

• It is a Hindu temple located in Puri, Odisha.
• It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of the Hindu deity Vishnu.
• It is believed to have been built during the reign of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva, of the Eastern Ganga dynasty, in the 12th century.
• However, the completion of the temple happened in 1230 AD under Anangbheema Deva III, who also installed the deities in the shrine.
• Ratha Yatra is a Hindu festival associated with Lord Jagannath temple.
• It is also one of the four sacred pilgrimage sites, known as the Chaar Dhaams, that hold great significance for Hindus.
• It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Jagannath Temple Architecture

• It is a striking example of Kalinga architecture, a distinct style prevalent in the Odisha region.
• The temple complex includes shrines, gardens, and sacred tanks, creating a serene atmosphere for devotion.
• The main temple is located at the center of the inner courtyard on a raised platform.
• The main temple is constructed in such a way that no shadow of the temple falls on the ground at any time of the day.
• The temple’s main structure, the sanctum sanctorum, or the garbhagriha, houses the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. 
• At the pinnacle of the temple, there is a 20-foot-high chakra (wheel) that is positioned in a way to be visible from any part of the city. 

Jagannath Temple FAQs

Q1. Who built Jagannath Temple?

Ans. The Jagannath Temple was primarily built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty around 1135 AD.

Q2. Why is Jagannath Temple called White Pagoda?

Ans. The Jagannath Temple is often referred to as the "White Pagoda" because of its distinctive white color and architectural style, which is similar to a pagoda, a type of Buddhist temple. 

Q3. What is the 12 year ritual of Jagannath?

Ans. The 12-year ritual of the Jagannath Temple is a significant event in the temple’s religious and cultural calendar, called the "Nabakalebara" (meaning "New Body").

Source: TOI