Jagannath Temple

About Jagannath Temple:

• It is 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.
• Architecture:
  • It is a striking example of Kalinga architecture, a distinct style prevalent in the Odisha region.
  • It is constructed in such a way that no shadow of the temple falls on the ground at any time of the day.
  • 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.
  • Unlike other temples of the region, the carvings on the temples are predominantly of gods and goddesses.