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Explore the spiritual charm and cultural legacy of a lesser-known Jagannath Temple in Odisha
When we think of Jagannath temples, the first image that comes to mind is usually Puri. But Odisha is home to several other significant Jagannath temples, and one of the most culturally rich among them is the Nayagarh Jagannath Temple. Tucked at the foothills of Balarama, this temple tells a fascinating story of devotion, royal patronage, and traditional rituals that parallel those of Puri.
Let’s journey into this remarkable temple’s past, its unique architecture, festivals, and the traditions still alive today.
A Glimpse into the Origins
Though the early rulers of Nayagarh were Saivites by faith, they shared a profound respect for Vaishnavism. The spiritual seeds of the Jagannath Temple Nayagarh were sown by Raja Bagha Singh (1480–1510 AD), a petty chieftain who later rose to prominence. He first installed the Chaturdha Murty (Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshan) on a humble mud altar at the foothill of Balarama.
Later, under the rule of Raja Ramachandra Singh (1720–30 AD), larger images were carved and worshipped in a black chlorite altar in Sinduria.
However, it was Raja Binayak Singh (1793–1823 AD) who gave the temple its grand form and structure. He commissioned the present-day icons and built the main sanctum of the temple. Sadly, due to his demise, the Jagamohana (porch) was left incomplete.
The Architecture: Simple Yet Majestic
The main sanctum of the Nayagarh Jagannath Temple is built in the ‘Rekha Deula’ style, a hallmark of Odisha temple architecture. Moreover, the structure follows the Pancha Ratha plan, giving it a balanced and symmetric look.
Key architectural highlights include:
- Firstly, a towering Vimana standing 120 ft tall.
- Secondly, surrounding deities like Varaha, Narasimha, and Trivikrama are installed as Parsvadevatas (side deities).
- In addition, there are beautiful carvings of the Navagraha (nine planets) above the doorway.
- Furthermore, a depiction of Gajalakshmi symbolizes prosperity and protection.
- Although the builders didn’t construct the original Jagamohana, they eventually added a flat-roofed building to serve its purpose.
The Role of Master Craftsmen
Raja Binayak Singh took the help of Mukunda Mahapatra, a skilled sculptor from Athgarh, who carved the temple icons with dedication. Mukunda’s father, Raghumani Mahapatra, and grandfather, Artabandhu, had also worked on icons in nearby regions—showing how this spiritual art ran through generations.
The royal court granted land in Itamati to Mukunda’s family, further showcasing the king’s gratitude and the importance placed on temple artisanship.
Traditions That Echo Puri
Inspired by the Jagannath culture of Puri, Raja Binayak Singh implemented the Chhatisa Niyog Sevas (36 categories of temple services), a ritual system that mirrored Puri’s.
He also made significant land grants to sustain temple activities. Villagers from surrounding areas contributed in kind — with rice, vegetables, and various other services (known as Bethi), continuing a unique communal tradition.
Celebrations That Unite the Community
One of the most anticipated events is the Rath Yatra, where three chariots are built starting from Akshaya Tritiya. Similarly to Puri, the deities embark on their divine journey to the Adapa Mandapa (Gundicha Temple equivalent).
Specifically, on the day of the chariot festival, the Raja of Nayagarh performs the sacred ritual of Chhera Panhara, sweeping the chariot floor with a golden broom—thus echoing Puri’s royal traditions.
In addition to Rath Yatra, other important festivals include:
- Makara Sankranti
- Chandan Yatra
- Snana Yatra
Sacred Offerings: The Divine Taste of Anna Prasad
Similarly to Puri, devotees receive Anna Prasad—a sacred offering consisting of rice, dal, curry, and more—served in traditional earthen pots (Kudua). Moreover, the simplicity of this offering enhances its spiritual significance.
People Also Ask
1. Where is Nayagarh Jagannath Temple located?
It is located in Nayagarh town, Odisha, at the foothills of Balarama hill.
2. Who built the temple in Nayagarh?
Raja Binayak Singh commissioned the main sanctum and icons during his rule between 1793–1823 AD.
3. What festivals are celebrated in Nayagarh Jagannath Temple?
Major festivals include Rath Yatra, Makara Sankranti, Chandan Yatra, and Snana Yatra.
4. Is Nayagarh Jagannath Temple similar to the Puri temple?
Yes, it closely follows Puri’s rituals, iconography, and even the structure of the Rath Yatra.
5. Can visitors get mahaprasad in temple?
Yes, devotees can receive sacred Anna Prasad in traditional earthen pots.
Plan Your Visit to Nayagarh Jagannath Temple
If you’re a spiritual traveler or a history lover, the Nayagarh Jagannath Temple deserves a place on your Odisha itinerary. It’s not just a temple—it’s a legacy of devotion, architecture, and living tradition.
Ready to explore Odisha’s hidden spiritual gems? Start with Nayagarh Jagannath Temple and experience the serenity that echoes through centuries.
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