Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
* One of the most popular Hindu temples in India
* Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu
* Built in the 12th century CE
* A major pilgrimage site for Hindus
* Annual Rath Yatra festival attracts millions of devotees
History
The Jagannath Temple was built in the 12th century CE by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, and the annual Rath Yatra festival attracts millions of devotees.
Architecture
The Jagannath Temple is a massive structure made of sandstone and granite. The temple complex is divided into three parts: the Jagamohana (assembly hall), the Natamandapa (dancing hall), and the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). The temple is topped by a 54-meter-high (177 ft) spire.
Deities
The Jagannath Temple is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Vishnu. The temple also houses the deities of Balabhadra (brother of Jagannath) and Subhadra (sister of Jagannath).
Rath Yatra Festival
The Rath Yatra festival is held every year in June or July. The festival celebrates the journey of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple, a distance of about 3 kilometers (2 mi). The deities are taken on three chariots, which are pulled by thousands of devotees.
Significance
The Jagannath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in India. The temple is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus, and the annual Rath Yatra festival attracts millions of devotees. The temple is also a popular tourist destination.
Architecture
Architecture of Jagannath Temple, Puri, Odisha
The Jagannath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Jagannath, a form of Vishnu, located in Puri in the Indian state of Odisha. It is one of the Char Dhams, four holy sites of Hinduism. The temple is also known as Shrimandir and is one of the most revered Hindu temples.
The temple is built in the Kalinga style of architecture and is a major tourist attraction. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key features of the architecture
* The temple is built on a raised platform and has a pyramidal spire.
* The main temple is surrounded by a number of smaller shrines.
* The temple is decorated with sculptures of gods and goddesses.
* The temple is open to all people regardless of caste or creed.
Significance of the temple
The Jagannath Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples. It is a place of pilgrimage for Hindus from all over the world. The temple is also a major tourist attraction.
The temple is significant for its architecture, its religious significance, and its role as a tourist attraction.
References
* [Jagannath Temple, Puri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jagannath_Temple,_Puri)