Jagannath Temple is one of the most renowned
as well as the biggest temples of Orissa. Established in the 12th century, the
temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Lord Krishna), Lord of the Universe. The
credit for laying the foundation of the Jagannath temple of Puri goes to Raja
Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev. The temple is located at a distance of 60 km from
Bhubaneswar, on the coast of Bay of Bengal, and is greatly revered by the
devotees following the Vaishnava traditions.
There is an interesting legend associated with
the Jagannatha temple of Puri. It is said that King Indradyumna, the ruler of
the territory, saw Lord Jagannath in his dreams and following the Lord's
wishes, as told to him in his dreams, he got the Jagannath Puri Temple
constructed. Situated in the heart of the holy city, the temple is visited by
devotees from farthest corners of India as well as the world. It exudes
splendor and its tall spires lend it a magnificent aura. The walls are
embellished with exquisite carvings.
The pillars that provide support to the temple
are adorned with pictures depicting the life of Lord Krishna. In the list of
the most splendid monuments of Orissa, Jagannath temple occupies a supreme
position. One of the most popular attractions of the Jagannatha Temple of Puri
comprises of its Rath Yatra that is organized every year. It is basically a
chariot festival, where idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess
Subhadra, the main deities of Srimandir, are taken to the Gundicha temple in
bejeweled chariots and are brought back to the mandir in the same way.
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