The Rath Yatra of Lord Jagannath began on 7th July in Puri, Odisha. This annual event is organized every year starting from the second day of Shukla Paksha in the month of Ashadh.
Lord Jagannath lives among the general public from Ashadh Shukla Dwitiya to Dashami Tithi. During this time, Lord Jagannath, along with his elder brother Balram and sister Subhadra, sits on the chariot and departs towards the Gundicha temple.
The grand event of Jagannath Rath Yatra lasts for 10 days. It is said that just by seeing the Rath Yatra, one gets the virtue of 1000 yagnas.
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Mysteries of Jagannath Puri Temple
The Jagannath Puri Temple is renowned for its religious significance and remarkable architectural beauty. However, there are several mysterious and extraordinary aspects associated with this temple that make it truly unique. Let’s explore some of these fascinating facts that set the Jagannath Puri Temple apart from other temples.
1. The Temple’s Shadow
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Jagannath Puri Temple is that its shadow is said to be invisible at any time of the day. Regardless of the position of the sun, the temple does not cast a shadow in any direction. This phenomenon defies the laws of physics and adds to the temple’s mystique.
2. The Flag on the Temple
The flag atop the Jagannath Puri Temple always flutters in the opposite direction of the wind. This flag is about 20 feet long and is changed daily. The fact that it waves against the wind baffles scientists and adds to the list of miraculous events associated with the temple.
3. The Prasad at the Temple
The prasad (offering) prepared at the Jagannath Puri Temple is said to be sufficient regardless of the number of devotees. Whether 2,000 or 200,000 people visit the temple in a day, the prasad never falls short nor does it go to waste. This remarkable fact strengthens the faith of the devotees and is considered a blessing from Lord Jagannath.
4. The Sudarshan Chakra
The Sudarshan Chakra, located atop the temple at a height of about 20 feet, is visible from any corner of the city. Another fascinating fact is that the chakra always appears to be facing the observer, regardless of the direction from which it is viewed. This marvel enhances the grandeur of the temple.
5. No Birds or Planes Above the Temple
It is said that no birds fly above the Jagannath Puri Temple and no airplanes pass over it. This phenomenon is considered mysterious and a sign of the temple’s sanctity and divine power. This occurrence has no scientific explanation, making it even more intriguing.
6. Cooking of the Prasad
The prasad at the temple is cooked in seven earthen pots stacked one over the other. Surprisingly, the food in the topmost pot cooks first, followed by the ones below in sequence. This unique cooking method is an extraordinary sight to behold.
7. The Changing of Idols
The idols in the Jagannath Puri Temple are replaced yearly, and the old idols are buried in the ground, where they eventually decompose. This practice, known as ‘Nabakalebara,’ is a deeply rooted tradition that maintains the sanctity and religious significance of the temple.
8. Silence of the Sea Waves
The temple is located near the sea, and the sound of the waves is clearly audible outside the temple. However, as soon as one steps inside the temple gates, the sound of the waves disappears. This phenomenon offers a serene and peaceful experience within the temple premises.
9. The Direction of the Sea Breeze
Typically, the sea breeze blows from the sea towards the land during the day and from the land towards the sea in the evening. However, in Puri, this pattern is reversed. This unusual natural occurrence adds to the temple’s mystical nature.
10. The Daily Flag-Changing Ritual
Every day, a priest climbs to the top of the temple, which is as high as a 45-story building, to change the flag. It is believed that if this ritual is skipped even for a single day, the temple would be closed for the next 18 years.
This tradition underscores the temple’s religious importance and its unique customs. These mysterious and wondrous facts about the Jagannath Puri Temple make it not only a significant religious site but also an important tourist destination.
The Jagannath Puri Temple is a vital part of our cultural and religious heritage, and its mysteries continue to fascinate and attract people from all over the world.
