The Eternal Mystery Of Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath by Srikanta…..
ହେ ମଣିମା
Patali Srikhetra-Subarnapur (Sonpur)
MAHAPRABHU SHREE JAGANNATH (BAPA) IS ABSOLUTE TRUE,
OTHER THAN HIM ARE RELATIVELY TRUE….
GOD IS NO WHERE
GOD IS NOW HERE
The profound connection between devotees and Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath is beautifully illustrated through a simple yet powerful wordplay. By shifting the “W” (representing trust and love) in “no God,” we arrive at “now God,” signifying the presence of the divine through faith. This reflects the unique nature of Jagannath, who, despite being the universe’s creator, embodies human-like qualities (Manabiya Leela). He eats when offered food, wears clothes when adorned, and listens without ears, understanding every devotee’s heart.
This post explores the historical significance of Patali Srikhetra in Subarnapur, where Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra were hidden (Patali) for 144 years during a non-Hindu invasion, as recorded in the Madalapanji. King Sovanadeva fled with the deities and buried them in Sonepur-Gopali, only to be rediscovered and re-enshrined in Puri by Yayati Keshari of the Somavamsi dynasty. Even today, the soil at the Patali site is believed to retain the fragrance of Chandana, a testament to this historical event.
Patali Srikhetra, located at the foot of Trikut Hill in Kotsamlai, is a significant site associated with Shaktism, Buddhism, and Vaishnavism. It’s also linked to the shrines of Goddess Stambheswari and the Jagannath Trinity, showcasing a Siva-Shakti correlation. The nearby monastery of Saint Baba Chandramani Das adds to the spiritual significance of the area. The Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri, officially recognized Patali Srikhetra in 2007, and subsequent visits by the Archaeological Survey of India confirmed its historical and archaeological importance. This post highlights the rich history, spiritual significance, and ongoing efforts to develop and preserve Patali Srikhetra, a hidden gem in the Jagannath tradition.