Top 10 Unknown Mysteries of Jagannath Temple

Sri Jagannath temple is one of the 4 holy Char Dham of India nestled in the eastern coastal state of Odisha. Jagannath Temple in Puri is a sacred marvel, embodying  9 hundred years of devotion, spirituality, and architectural brilliance. This iconic temple is not just a place of worship of the 4 deities; Sri Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshana but a living testament to the rich cultural tapestry of India, drawing millions of devotees and tourists alike to witness its grandeur and experience the divine aura that permeates its hallowed grounds. Also unlike other temples of India, the mysteries of jagannath temple and scientifically unexplainable facts that can only be experienced in Puri, Odisha.

Top 10 Unknown Mysteries of jagannath Temple

Among all those mysteries that attract millions of devotees every year all across the seas some of them have been discussed below :-

1. WOODEN IDOLS 

In India as we see millions of temples every 10 meters but it’s impossible to observe the God and Goddess made up of wood, which is a prime attraction of the Puri Jaganatha temple.

Here all the 4 gods are made up of sacred Neem wood. It is also believed that Lord Jagannath himself selects those Neem trees as the location of these trees is mentioned in a dream to the servitors of Jaganatha temple and unravelling the mysteries of jagannath temple.

2. REINCARNATION OF THE CELESTIAL BODY OF GOD 

Yes, you read that right Here the Jagannath Temple in Puri holds a unique tradition where every 19 years, according to the Hindu Panjika, the prime deities Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and the Sudarshan Chakra are ceremoniously replaced with new idols carved from neem wood is said to be one of the astounding mysteries of jagannath temple. This sacred ritual, Navakalevara, symbolizes the eternal cycle of recreation, preservation, and renewal within Hindu cosmology. As the divine essence continues to reside within these new idols, devotees flock to witness this auspicious event, reinforcing their faith in the eternal presence and benevolence of the deities and unravel the mysteries of jagannath temple.

3. DIRECTION OF FLAG 

The flag situated on the top of the temple always flies in the opposite direction of wind. This phenomenon defies a simple explanation and must be experienced to be fully appreciated and is said to be one of the astounding mysteries of jagannath temple. Furthermore, a specially designated priest’s daily changing of the temple’s flag adds to the temple’s allure and reverence. Scaling the towering heights of the temple, which reaches up to 65 meters, this priest undertakes a sacred duty to ensure the continual sanctity and auspiciousness of the temple grounds. Thousands of devotees gather together to watch this flag-changing ceremony daily and witness this divine experience and to unravel the mysteries of jagannath temple.

4. NILACHAKRA DIRECTION 

The top of the temple has been honored by Nilachakra, a 2200 kg weighted wheel whose height is approximately 11ft. The very fact that how such a heavy wheel reached the top of the 214-foot temple is less fascinating than the fact that anywhere someone stands around Sri Jagannath temple the wheel seems to center at you. It fails any logical explanation but is only spiritually opinionated and can be said as one of the mysteries of jagannath temple.

5.NO SHADOW

 The main dome of Shri Jagannath Temple and other side domes never leave any shadow cast anywhere regardless of the direction of light. The absence of shadows within the temple premises, including those of the visitors themselves, serves as a potent reminder of the temple’s sacredness and the divine presence believed to permeate every corner and can be said one of the unexplainable mysteries of jagannath temple.

6. NOTHING FLIES ABOVE THE TEMPLE

The absence of birds and flies within the precincts of the Jagannath Temple in Puri is indeed a truly one of the mysteries of jagannath temple to be experienced with divinity. Despite the bustling cityscape outside, where one may observe numerous birds and flies, the temple remains remarkably devoid of such creatures. This inexplicable occurrence has fueled spiritual awe and reverence among millions of devotees, further deepening their faith in the divine power of Lord Jagannath. While science may seek to rationalize such occurrences, the sacredness and sanctity of the temple defy mere logical explanation. Instead, it invites contemplation on the mysteries of faith and the transcendental realm, where the divine operates beyond the confines of human understanding and to explore the mysteries of jagannath temple.

7. THE 22 STEPS 

The discrepancy between the popular belief of 22 steps leading to the entrance of the Jagannath Temple, known as “Baishi Pahachha,” and the actual count of 18 steps is indeed intriguing. Despite the observable count, the steadfast belief in the sacredness of these steps persists among devotees. Such discrepancies often serve to deepen the mystique surrounding sacred sites like the Jagannath Temple, inviting contemplation on the interplay between myth, tradition, and spiritual significance. It underscores the profound impact that faith and cultural narratives can have in shaping our perceptions of the divine. In the case of the Jagannath Temple, the belief in the sacredness of the 22 steps transcends mere numerical accuracy, symbolizing the rich tapestry of devotion and tradition woven around this revered pilgrimage site. As such, whether 18 or 22, these steps continue to inspire awe and reverence among devotees, reinforcing their 4DC profound connection to the divine presence of Lord Jagannath and can said one of the greatest mysteries of jagannath temple.

8.ABADHA MAHAPRASADAM 

The Mahaprasad offered to Lord Jagannath at the temple in Puri is indeed a sacred feast comprising 56 varieties of food items, including both sukhila (dry) and shakundi (liquid) offerings. This divine feast is served to the devotees in five different phases throughout the day: morning, afternoon, mid-afternoon, evening, and night. Each phase of the Mahaprasad carries its unique taste of divinity, as devotees partake in the spiritual nourishment provided by the offerings to the Lord. From the simple yet soul-satisfying flavors of the morning meal to the comforting warmth of the evening offering, each phase of the Mahaprasad serves as a reminder of the abundance of grace and blessings bestowed by Lord Jagannath upon His devotees. As devotees gather to receive and partake in this sacred feast, they are not only nourished physically but also spiritually, experiencing a profound sense of communion with the divine through the act of sharing in the Lord’s blessings. This cherished tradition of offering and partaking in the Mahaprasad serves as a testament to the deep spiritual connection between the devotees and their beloved deity, Lord Jagannath and to discover the mysteries of jagannath temple.

9.PREPARATION OF MAHAPRASADAM

The Mahaprasad offered at the Jagannath Temple in Puri truly embodies the essence of Odia cuisine, with each of its 56 dishes prepared with meticulous care and devotion. What makes this sacred feast even more remarkable is the unique cooking process, where all the dishes are cooked in earthen pots, each used only once. This tradition not only adds to the distinct flavor and aroma of the Mahaprasad but also symbolizes purity and sanctity, as the earth itself is considered sacred in Hindu culture. The belief that Goddess Lakshmi herself oversees the cooking process, infusing the food with her divine blessings, adds to the reverence and awe surrounding this culinary tradition. Behind the scenes, thousands of cooks are tasked with the honor of preparing the Mahaprasad, each contributing to the seamless execution of this monumental task. Their dedication and skill ensure that every dish is prepared to perfection, upholding the centuries-old tradition of offering the finest culinary delights to Lord Jagannath and His devotees. As devotees partake in the Mahaprasad, they not only indulge in the delectable flavors of Odisha but also experience a profound sense of spiritual nourishment, connecting them to the divine presence of Lord Jagannath and the blessings of Goddess Lakshmi herself. Truly, the Mahaprasad of the Jagannath Temple is not just a meal but a sacred experience that touches the hearts and souls of all who partake in it and discover some the unknown mysteries of jagannath temple.

10.WORLD FAMOUS RATHAYATRA

रथे तु वामनं दृष्ट्वा पुनर्जन्म न विद्यते ||

It is said in Sanskrit that if you have the opportunity to see Sri Jagannatha in the cart festival then you get salvation from human life. This world-famous festival invites millions of devotees all across the world irrespective of caste religion color. Prabhu shri Jagannatha with Prabhu Balabhradra and Subhadra along with Sudarshan leave for Mausi maa temple in 3 chariots for 9 days. One must definitely experience this divine experience at least once in a lifetime and unravel one of the unknown mysteries of jagannath temple.

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is a place that sparks wonder and deepens faith. From the unexplainable phenomena to the grandeur of the Rath Yatra festival, it’s a place that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a devotee seeking spiritual connection or a traveler curious about ancient traditions, the Jagannath Temple offers an experience that transcends the ordinary. So, if you find yourself drawn to its magnetic pull, don’t hesitate to embark on a journey to Puri. You might just discover some of the unknown mysteries of jagannath temple