Facts of Lord Jagannath

Sri Jagannath Temple Chakra Mystery

Atop the magnificent temple stands a massive wheel (chakra) weighing approximately one ton, which presents a fascinating optical phenomenon. No matter where observers position themselves in Puri, the chakra appears to be facing directly towards them. This creates an intriguing visual effect that has captivated visitors for centuries.

Adding to the temple's mystique is the remarkable engineering feat achieved by the 12th-century builders. They managed to hoist and secure this enormous metal wheel at such a considerable height, using technologies available nearly 900 years ago. This achievement continues to inspire wonder about the advanced architectural and engineering capabilities of medieval Indian craftsmen.

Sri Jagannath Temple Flag

Spiritually speaking, we are all familiar with the general principle that objects tend to move in the same direction as the wind. However, have you ever noticed that the Sri Jagannath Flag, positioned atop the temple’s spire, defies this natural rule? How does it do so?

When the wind blows in one direction, the flag atop the Sri Jagannath Temple waves in the contrary direction.

To this day, the strange occurrence remains unexplained by science. Each day, dedicated priests ascend the temple's towering structure to replace the 20-foot-wide triangular flag—an arduous task requiring great precision.

For the past 1,800 years, it has been the divine tradition for a saint to climb the 45-story dome of the temple and replace the flag. If this sacred practice is ever disrupted, even for a single day, the temple will be closed for 18 years in accordance with ancient customs.

The Temple Remains Shadowless

We are all familiar with the concept of a shadow, aren’t we? A shadow is created when one side of an object faces the sunlight, causing the opposite side to be shrouded in darkness.

But what if we told you that the Sri Jagannath Temple has no shadow? It’s hard to believe, but it is indeed true.

No matter where the sun stands in the sky, the temple casts no shadow, a phenomenon that defies the natural laws of shadow formation. This mysterious trait has led to numerous interpretations and discussions among the faithful. Some attribute it to the temple’s exceptional architectural design, while others view it as a divine miracle, a manifestation of the gods themselves.

No Waves Sound

It is often said, and many believe, that as you pass through the Singha Dwara entrance of the sacred Sri Jagannath temple, the sound of the ocean waves mysteriously fades away, becoming completely inaudible. Remarkably, the moment you step out of the temple, the sound returns. This phenomenon is most commonly experienced during the evening hours.

While there is no scientific explanation for this occurrence, local lore attributes it to Devi Subhadra, the beloved sister of the temple’s two presiding deities. It is believed that she desired absolute peace and serenity within the temple grounds, and through her divine will, this unique event continues to manifest.

Mystical Cooking Techniques

Sri Jagannath temple’s kitchen utilizes a distinctive cooking technique known as the "Seven Pots" method. In this process, seven vessels are stacked one atop the other and placed over a firewood flame. Interestingly, the topmost pot cooks first, followed by the others in the same sequence. This age-old tradition, rich in ritual and symbolism, exemplifies the temple’s dedication to upholding ancient culinary practices.

Mahaprasad is Never Left Unused

Discarding edible food is not only ethically wrong but is also considered disrespectful in Hindu mythology.

The temple sees a daily influx of visitors ranging from 1,000 to 100,000 people or More. Remarkably, every bit of the prepared Mahaprasad is consumed without waste, a practice locals proudly attribute to the efficient management of divine will.

One intriguing feature of the temple’s cooking method is the stacking of pots. Curiously, the pot placed at the top always finishes cooking first, a phenomenon that continues to fascinate devotees and visitors alike.