
18/07/2025
The Jagannath Temple is one of the most sacred and iconic Hindu temples in India, located in Puri, Odisha. It is famous for its rich spiritual significance, unique rituals, and the grand annual Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival).
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🛕 Jagannath Temple, Puri — Key Highlights
🕉️ Deities Worshipped
Lord Jagannath (a form of Krishna/Vishnu)
Balabhadra (brother of Jagannath)
Devi Subhadra (sister of Jagannath)
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📍 Location
Puri, on the eastern coast of Odisha, India.
One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites (others: Badrinath, Rameshwaram, Dwarka).
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🧭 Historical Significance
Built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva.
Follows Vaishnavite traditions.
Managed by the Gajapati King of Puri, who is considered the temple's chief servitor.
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🛐 Special Features
Non-Hindus are not allowed inside the temple premises.
The idols of the deities are made of neem wood and are replaced every 12–19 years in a ritual called Nabakalebara.
Mahaprasad (sacred food) is prepared in clay pots and offered to Lord Jagannath.
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🎉 Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival)
Held every June–July (Ashadha month).
The deities are taken out of the temple on massive wooden chariots.
Lakhs of devotees pull the chariots through the streets of Puri.
It's one of the largest religious processions in the world.