Jagatnatha

Jagatnatha is a prominent deity in Hinduism, particularly revered in the Jagannath Temple located in Puri, Odisha, India. The name Jagatnatha translates to "Lord of the Universe." This deity is considered a form of Vishnu or Krishna, and is often worshipped alongside his siblings, Balabhadra (Balarama) and Subhadra, and the divine weapon Sudarshana Chakra. The icons of Jagatnatha, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are distinctively carved from wood and lack detailed features, contributing to their unique iconography.

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites, making it a highly significant destination for devotees. The temple is renowned for its elaborate rituals and festivals, the most famous being the Ratha Yatra, or Chariot Festival. During this festival, the deities are taken out of the temple in grand, ornately decorated chariots to visit their aunt's temple, Gundicha Temple. This procession is a major spectacle, drawing millions of pilgrims annually.

The worship of Jagatnatha is characterized by its inclusive nature, historically allowing devotees from all castes and creeds to participate in certain aspects of the worship. The deity's form is said to represent the cosmic consciousness and is an embodiment of divine love and compassion. The legends surrounding Jagatnatha's origin and the construction of his icons are rich with mythology, often involving divine architects and miraculous events. The daily rituals and offerings at the temple are complex and varied, reflecting centuries of tradition and devotion.