Submit Tool
Submit stories

The Spiritual and Architectural Marvel of Puri Jagannath Temple

By /
Puri Jagannath Temple | localdrive

Table of Contents

The Puri Jagannath Temple is not just a place of worship—it is a symbol of India’s timeless spirituality, ancient architecture, and divine consciousness. Additionally, situated in Puri, Odisha, this sacred site is one of the Char Dham pilgrimages of Hinduism and home to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Vishnu. Meanwhile, beyond its towering spires and daily rituals lies an intricate design of symbolic fortifications—Meghanada Prachira, Kurma Bedha, and the sacred Koili Baikuntha—each echoing centuries of faith and resilience.

Significance of Puri Jagannath Temple

To begin with, the main structure of the Jagannath Temple was built in the 12th century CE by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. Furthermore, it holds immense cultural, religious, and architectural relevance, representing one of the four sacred dhams of Hinduism. Finally, the deities worshipped here—Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra—are revered by millions.

One unique aspect of this temple is its four majestic gates:

  • Simha Dwara (East / Lion Gate) – Symbolizing Dharma
  • Ashwa Dwara (South / Horse Gate) – Symbolizing Kama
  • Vyaghra Dwara (West / Tiger Gate) – Symbolizing Moksha
  • Hasti Dwara (North / Elephant Gate) – Symbolizing Artha
Each gate aligns with a core tenet of Hindu philosophy: Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha—known collectively as Chaturvarga.
Puri Jagannath Temple | localdrive

Meghanada Prachira – The Outer Shield of Divinity

To begin with, the Meghanada Prachira, also called Bahar Bedha, is the outer compound wall that surrounds the entire temple complex. Specifically, it measures 665 ft (East–West) by 640 ft (North–South), with a height ranging from 20 to 24 ft. Furthermore, this laterite and sandstone wall is topped with serrated battlements that resemble a defensive fort.

Why was it built?

Historically, it served both aesthetic and defensive purposes. Specifically, during times of Muslim invasions in the 15th and 16th centuries, this wall acted as a protective bastion for both civilians and soldiers.

Interestingly, a fascinating local belief says that this wall blocks the sound of the sea (Bay of Bengal) inside the temple premises. Even though the roaring sea is audible outside, it becomes eerily silent within the sanctum—thanks to the acoustic design of this structure.

Who built it?

The wall is attributed to Gajapati Kapilendra Deva (r. 1435–1460), and according to some records, was constructed around 1448 CE.

Kurma Bedha – The Sacred Inner Wall

Initially, the sacred complex begins with the Kurma Prachira, also known as Kurma Bedha—the inner compound wall shaped like a tortoise (Kurma). This massive wall, measuring 420 ft by 315 ft and 5 ft thick, surrounds the sanctum and reinforces spiritual security.

Furthermore, the Kurma Bedha also contains several gates besides the main four. These gates connect directly to:

  • Ananda Bazaar (north-east corner): Devotees gather here to buy and share the sacred Mahaprasad.
  • Temple kitchen (east-south corner): Temple cooks prepare the world’s largest daily offering to the deities here.
Meanwhile, at the Simha Dwara, 22 sacred steps known as Baisi Pahacha invite countless acts of devotion. Devotees touch, bow, and let their children roll over these steps in reverence.

Historical Timeline

While some say it was constructed earlier, records suggest Gajapati Purushottama Deva (r. 1467–1497) built it around 1470 CE, following the outer wall’s completion.

Koili Baikuntha – The Spiritual Heart of Jagannath

Specifically, located between the Meghanada Prachira and Kurma Bedha, in the north-western corner, lies the mysterious and sacred Koili Baikuntha. Moreover, known as the Kaibalya Baikuntha, or the heavenly abode of Vishnu, this space is of immense spiritual importance.

Why is Koili Baikuntha important?

  • Firstly, burial site for old deities: Devotees bury the old wooden idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, and Sudarshan here during the Nabakalebara (new body ritual).
  • Secondly, birthplace of new idols: Artisans sculpt the new divine forms at this site.
  • Thirdly, botanical sanctity: A Malati creeper and a sacred garden thrive here, radiating spiritual energy.
  • Fourth, guarded by Lord Shiva: Lord Baikuntheswar Mahadev protects this sanctified area.
Additionally, legend says the Pandavas cremated Lord Krishna here after Jara Sabara struck him. Vishwavasu, a tribal king, also worshipped Neelamadhava—the ancient form of Lord Jagannath—at this sacred location.

People Also Ask

Q1. Why is Puri Jagannath Temple so special?

The temple is one of the four dhams of Hinduism; moreover, it is home to unique rituals like Nabakalebara and showcases rare Kalinga architecture.

Q2. What is Meghanada Prachira in Jagannath Temple?

Builders raised the massive outer stone wall to surround the temple complex and to ensure both protection and symbolic sanctity.

Q3. What is Kurma Bedha in Puri Temple?

It is the inner wall resembling a tortoise shape; significantly, it symbolizes Lord Vishnu’s second avatar and adds a layer of sacred defense.

Q4. What happens in Koili Baikuntha?

Devotees bury the old idols and craft the new ones here during the Nabakalebara festival; indeed, this site marks the ancient core of the temple.

Q5. Who built the Jagannath Temple at Puri?

King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva built the temple in the 12th century CE.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Puri Jagannath Temple

Indeed, the Puri Jagannath Temple is not just about divine worship—it is an immersive experience into the spiritual, historical, and architectural soul of India. The Meghanada Prachira, Kurma Bedha, and Koili Baikuntha each offer unique layers of meaning that enrich your understanding of Hindu tradition and sacred geography.
Jagannath Temple CTA

Embrace India’s spiritual heritage and plan your pilgrimage with Puri Jagannath Temple at the top of your list. Explore this divine complex as a historian, a devotee, or a curious traveler, and uncover its timeless mysteries.

➡️ Share this blog with fellow spiritual seekers.

➡️ Bookmark it for your next trip to Puri.

Trending Posts

Bhairavi, The Hidden Link Between the Buddha Statue and Jagannath, Adi Guru Shankaracharya, Sisupalgarh Odisha

Related Posts

2 thoughts on “The Spiritual and Architectural Marvel of Puri Jagannath Temple”

  1. Pingback: Odisha Eco Tourism: Explore the Hidden Green Paradises of India - localdrive.in

  2. Pingback: Udayagiri & Khandagiri – Discover Odisha’s Ancient Jain Legacy

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Thank You

When you read using links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.

Trending Topic

  • Best Nature Outin
  • Best Temple Area
  • Best Art of Odisha
  • Best Art of Puri
  • Best of Cuttack

localdrive © 2025 All Right Reserved Power by urlcare

Scroll to Top