Gundicha Temple Puri Biography
The Gundicha Temple holds great importance in the annual Rath Yatra, which is one of the major festivals celebrated in Puri. The Rath Yatra marks the journey of Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple. It is believed that during this festival, Lord Jagannath visits his aunt's house (Gundicha Temple) for a nine-day stay.
According to legends, the Gundicha Temple was built by King Indradyumna, who is credited with the establishment of the main Jagannath Temple in Puri. It is said that when the king discovered the location of the deity's idols, he ordered the construction of the Gundicha Temple to prepare for the annual Rath Yatra.
The temple is constructed in the typical Kalinga architectural style, featuring a curvilinear tower (shikara) and intricate stone carvings. The temple complex is surrounded by a large garden and is spread over a vast area.
During the Rath Yatra, the deities of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra are taken from the Jagannath Temple to the Gundicha Temple in three grand chariots. The deities remain at the Gundicha Temple for nine days, during which time devotees flock to the temple to seek blessings.
The temple holds great religious significance, and devotees believe that a visit to the Gundicha Temple during the Rath Yatra is highly auspicious. It is believed that anyone who gets the opportunity to sweep the floors of the Gundicha Temple during the festival earns immense religious merit.
Overall, the Gundicha Temple in Puri is a revered Hindu pilgrimage site and an integral part of the annual Rath Yatra festival. It serves as a temporary abode for Lord Jagannath and holds immense religious and cultural importance in the region.
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