Why in news?
On February 6, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu offered prayers at the temple, seeking national peace and prosperity.
About Jagannath Temple
The Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, is one of Hinduism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, famous for its annual Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival) and its unique worship of Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu. Built in 1161 CE, it is a monumental example of Kalinga architecture and remains a living center of tradition and devotion.
Location & Significance
- City: Puri, Odisha, India
- Coordinates: 19°48′17″N 85°49′6″E
- Deities Worshipped: Lord Jagannath (Vishnu/Krishna), Balabhadra, and Subhadra
- Religious Importance: One of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites (alongside Badrinath, Dwarka, and Rameswaram).
Architecture & Structure
- Style: Kalinga architecture
- Height: ~214 feet (65 meters)
- Temple Complex Area: ~10 acres
- Materials: Stone for the temple; idols carved from Neem wood (renewed during Nabakalebara ritual).
- Main Features:
- The Shikhara (spire) dominates Puri’s skyline.
- The Singhadwara (Lion Gate) is the main entrance.
- The temple houses 31 smaller shrines within its complex.
Major Festivals
- Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival): Annual event where the deities are taken out in massive chariots, attracting millions of devotees.
- Snana Yatra: Ritual bathing of the deities.
- Chandan Yatra: Deities are smeared with sandalwood paste.
- Nabakalebara: Rare ritual (every 12–19 years) where the wooden idols are replaced.
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