Jagannath Puri
The wooden deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra ride huge chariots every summer. The present temple was begun by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva in the 12th century.
Sacred origin
[Traditional account]
King Indradyumna was guided to Nilamadhava, a form of Vishnu worshipped by the Sabara chief Vishvavasu. The divine carpenter (Vishvakarma, in many tellings) carved the deities on condition he not be disturbed; the king opened the door early, and the deities remained unfinished — as they are worshipped today.
Documented history
[Archaeological evidence]
The present temple was begun by Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 12th century and completed under his successors. The deities are renewed in the Nabakalebara ceremony, most recently in 2015.
The journey continues for members
- Festivals
Sources
- Skanda Purana — Purushottama Kshetra Mahatmya