Introduction to Jagannath Temple in Puri
The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the popular Hindu pilgrimage temples in Puri, Orissa which is dedicated to Jagannath or Lord Krishna. This temple is the ultimate haven for the Hindus and specifically the Vaishnavites who are ardent followers of Krishna. The Rath Yatra, or chariot festival is celebrated with great pomp and grandeur in this temple. The Jagannath Temple according to the past accounts was built by Anantavarman Chodaganga Dev, the Kalinga ruler and it reached completion under Ananga Bhima Deva, the Orissan ruler.
The Origin of the Jagannath Temple in Puri
The origin of the Jagannath Temple in Puri leads to the legend that the original idol of Jagannath which Dharma wanted to hide while ruler of Malwa, King Indradyumna in his attempts to find out that image followed Vishnu's instructions and found a floating log from which the images of Krishna, Balarama and Subhadra were constructed by Vishnu and Vishwakarma who appeared in front of the craftsmen.
The Architecture of the Jagannath Temple in Puri
The temple complex covering an area of more than 400,000 square feet is surrounded by a fortified wall containing approximately 120 temples and shrines. The temple with its sculptural richness and architectural grandeur is considered to be one of the splendid monuments India, has on display. The main temple being a curvilinear temple has a Srichakra of Vishnu on the top. The Srichakra is a spoked wheel with 8 sharp edges.
The tower of the temple is built on a raised platform of stone. The temple tower rises to 214 feet over the inner sanctum and the pyramidal roofs of the adjoining mandapas are known to rise in steps to the tower featuring a mountain peak appearance. The main shrine of this temple remains enclosed within a wall that's 20 ft high. In front of the main gate you will come across the gigantic 16 sided monolith pillar.
The Prime Deities Adorning Jagannath Temple in Puri
The prime deities adorning this temple are Jagannath, Balabhadra and goddess Subhadra. These bejeweled deities remain in the platform of the inner sanctum. Despite great popularity of this Hindu temple only few specific communities and castes are allowed to go inside. The non Hindus are not allowed within the premises of this temple.
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