The divine is often contemplated through various names and forms, each representing different aspects of its limitless nature. The Shodasha Nama Stotram, a hymn invoking sixteen names of Lord Vishnu/Jagannath, beautifully showcases this concept. It highlights different names for the Lord, each meant to be remembered during particular times or situations. Let’s explore these names […]
In the heart of Puri, within the sacred precincts of the Shri Jagannath Temple, a unique and deeply moving tradition unfolds each year – Deva Deepavali, the festival of lights for the divine. This is not just a festival of illumination, but a heartfelt homage to ancestors, a ritual in which Shri Jagannath Mahaprabhu himself […]
As the Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri welcomes devotees from far and wide, the temple administration is always seeking ways to improve the darshan experience. Starting January 1st, new guidelines will be implemented to streamline the flow of devotees, particularly within the inner sanctums. Let’s explore these new measures designed to offer a more organized […]
Byanjan Dwadashi, also known as Akhanda Dwadashi, is a unique Hindu festival observed on the Margashira Shukla Dwadashi (the twelfth day of the waxing moon phase in the month of Margashira). This special day commemorates the profound love and care that Mother Yashoda showered upon her beloved son, Lord Krishna. Rooted in the legends of […]
The Bahara Chandan Yatra, or the outer sandalwood festival, is a beloved annual event in Puri, Odisha, that spans 21 days. During this period, Lord Madanmohan, a representative deity of Lord Jagannath, graces his devotees with a new and unique Besha (attire) each day. This vibrant and colorful festival not only celebrates the divine but […]
The Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri is not merely a place of worship; it’s a sacred abode where divine grace often manifests in unexpected ways. The story of Uaansi and her son, Patita, provides a poignant example of this, revealing the mystical origins of the Patitapabana Banner (the flag of the savior of the downtrodden) […]
The Ratna Bedi of Puri’s Shri Jagannath Temple is a sacred platform adorned with divine forms. While the central deities – Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra – are widely revered, the Ratna Bedi also houses lesser-known deities, each with their own significance and connection to the main triad. The Divine Ensemble In […]
Lord Jagannath, the embodiment of compassion, is renowned for His boundless love for His devotees. Among the countless tales of devotion, the story of Manidas stands out as a testament to the Lord’s unwavering commitment to his followers. Let’s delve into this heartwarming narrative and witness the depths of divine grace. “The Protector of the […]
Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of Puri’s Jagannath Temple, is not merely a deity; he is an embodiment of divine wisdom, love, and artistry. The Shodasha Kala, or the sixteen arts, represent different facets of this divine wisdom, offering a roadmap for spiritual and personal growth. These sixteen arts are not literal arts, but rather […]
Sankranti, a festival celebrated throughout India, holds a special place in the hearts of Odias. Marking the sun’s transition from one zodiac sign to another, each Sankranti brings unique spiritual significance and is observed with various traditions and rituals. One of the key practices associated with Sankranti is the Sankranti Homa, a sacred fire ritual […]
