Jagannath Temple , Puri

            The Jagannath Temple

The Jagannath Temple is a famous Hindu temple.It is  located in Puri, Odisha, India. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu. Here are some key details about the temple :

History : The temple's construction is believed to have started in the 12th century during the reign of King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. It has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries.

Rath Yatra : The temple is well-known for its yearly Rath Yatra (Chariot festival), when the gods are mounted on large chariots and drawn through the streets by throngs of worshippers. Millions of pilgrims from throughout the world attend the Rath Yatra.

Puri Jagannath Culture : The temple is an important component of Odisha's cultural history in addition to being a place of worship. It is important to many of the region's festivals, ceremonies, and cultural events. 

Kitchen of the Temple : The temple has a special kitchen named "Ananda Bazaar" or "Mahaprasad," where holy food offerings known as "bhog" are prepared every day. Before food is served to worshipers, Lord Jagannath is said to have tasted it and blessed .

Here's some facts about the Jagannath temple 

1 . The direction of the flag 

The flag at the top of the Jagannath Temple flutters in the opposite direction to the wind's direction of blowing. A priest ascends the Shikhara of the Jagannath Temple each day to replace the flag, following a practice that dates back 1800 years. According to legend, if even one day of this rite is missed, the temple will be shuttered for a whopping 18 years. The temple is 45 stories tall, comparable to a building. 

 2 . No Shadow of the flag - 

The temple doesn't throw a shadow at any time of day or location where the sun is shining. It is now unknown if it is an architectural marvel or only a miracle.

 3 . The purpose of Prasadam -

 Each year, millions of pilgrims come to this revered shrine. More pilgrims than usual go during Rath Yatra or Jagannath Puja days. However, every day the same quantity of food (Jagannatha Prasadam) is prepared. No devotee goes without food, and food is never squandered.

4 . The Secret of the Chakra - 

The Bhagya Chakra or Chakra, which weighs around a ton, is located at the summit of the temple. The most incredible truth is that the Chakra is always facing the spectator when viewed from a height from any location in Puri. How a massive wheel was placed on top of a temple that was so tall in the 12th century is even more puzzling.

5 . Secret Mahaprasad - 

The food is cooked on wood in seven earthen pots arranged one on top of the other, with the food in the top pot being cooked first and then the rest. Thousands of priests prepare Mahaprasadam. Another puzzle to be solved is this one.