When we think of Lord Jagannath, we usually recall the grand temple in Puri, Odisha.
However, a lesser-known yet spiritually powerful temple stands in Jaguleipatna, Khurda, where devotees believe Lord Jagannath manifested in his full-limbed form.
Therefore, let us take a soulful journey into the Jagannath Temple of Jaguleipatna, explore its divine legends, spiritual significance, and discover why this temple deserves your next visit.
However, a lesser-known yet spiritually powerful temple stands in Jaguleipatna, Khurda, where devotees believe Lord Jagannath manifested in his full-limbed form.
Therefore, let us take a soulful journey into the Jagannath Temple of Jaguleipatna, explore its divine legends, spiritual significance, and discover why this temple deserves your next visit.
Where Spirituality Meets Simplicity: Introduction to Jaguleipatna Temple
Jaguleipatna, once a forest-surrounded village in Khurda district, holds one of the most mystical forms of Lord Jagannath. Unlike the famous Puri deities carved without full limbs, here the idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are worshipped with complete hands and legs.
Furthermore, according to local belief, this is how the Lord wanted to manifest himself—as the Kalki Avatar to fight injustice and restore dharma.
Furthermore, according to local belief, this is how the Lord wanted to manifest himself—as the Kalki Avatar to fight injustice and restore dharma.
Divine Dream & Mahanta’s Devotion: The Origin Story
The spiritual journey of this temple began when a saintly devotee, Mahant Raghubar Das, had a dream where Lord Jagannath instructed him to establish idols with full limbs at Jaguleipatna. Moreover, the holy wood (daru) was to be collected from Beruan village near Khurda.
Following the Lord’s divine command, the daru idols were carved and established in 1918. Consequently, the Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival) started with the support of the local villagers.
Following the Lord’s divine command, the daru idols were carved and established in 1918. Consequently, the Ratha Yatra (Chariot Festival) started with the support of the local villagers.
A Divine Miracle: The Fire That Couldn’t Harm the Deities
Years later, a fire broke out in the house where they kept the deities. Shockingly, flames reduced the entire structure to ashes; however, the wooden idols of
Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra resisted the fire—a miracle that strengthened people’s faith in the Lord’s divine presence.
Neglect to Revival: The Temple's Modern Journey
After the death of Mahant Raghubar Das and his disciple Digambar Baba, the temple experienced years of neglect; consequently, it was almost forgotten by the people.
However, in 1980, the locals revived the temple. They built a concrete shrine, erected a Garuda Stambha, and resumed the annual Ratha Yatra with grandeur. Since then, devotees, tourists, and researchers have increasingly visited the temple.
However, in 1980, the locals revived the temple. They built a concrete shrine, erected a Garuda Stambha, and resumed the annual Ratha Yatra with grandeur. Since then, devotees, tourists, and researchers have increasingly visited the temple.
Why This Temple Deserves Your Attention
- The Jagannath Temple of Jaguleipatna is not just a religious structure. It’s a testament to divine will, humble devotion, and community strength. It represents how Lord Jagannath walks with his people, chooses his spaces, and blesses even the most forgotten corners with his presence.
If you’re someone who:
- Loves discovering offbeat spiritual destinations,
- Wants to witness Jagannath’s rare full-limbed avatar, or
- Feels drawn to places of untold history and miracles,
People Also Ask: Common Questions About Jagannath Temple of Jaguleipatna
What is special about the Jagannath Temple of Jaguleipatna?
This temple houses full-limbed wooden idols of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra, unlike the iconic limbless forms in Puri.
Where is Jaguleipatna located?
Jaguleipatna is a village in the Khurda district of Odisha, once surrounded by forests and now known for this hidden Jagannath temple.
Who established the Jagannath Temple in Jaguleipatna?
Mahant Raghubar Das, following a divine dream, established the temple in 1918 using sacred wood from Beruan village.
Do People Celebrate Ratha Yatra in Jaguleipatna?
Yes! Locals started the Ratha Yatra in 1918 and revived it in 1980. They continue to celebrate it with great cooperation.
Has the temple ever experienced miracles?
Yes, notably when a fire destroyed the temple structure but left the deities unharmed—an event seen as divine protection.
Let’s Not Forget Our Divine Roots
There are countless spiritual gems like the Jagannath Temple of Jaguleipatna hidden across India, waiting to be rediscovered. Temples like these connect us with our roots, stories, and faith—they deserve our attention and preservation.
👉 Visit Jaguleipatna to experience the divine presence in its most heartfelt form.
👉 Share this blog with others who would love to explore such hidden temples.