IN THE COMPANY OF KRISHNA- 15. ORISSA

 

Odisha, once known as Orissa, has a strong and ancient connection with Lord Krishna. In this state, Krishna is worshipped as Lord Jagannath, meaning “Lord of the Universe.” The most famous temple for him is the Jagannath Temple in the city of Puri. Many believe this temple holds Lord Krishna’s heart.

Every year, Odisha celebrates a big festival called the Rath Yatra, or Chariot Festival, where the idols of Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra are taken out in a grand procession. Thousands of people pull their huge chariots through the streets, showing deep devotion.

The name Jagannath shows how Krishna is seen as the supreme god who takes care of the world and his followers. Legends say the idols in the temple are special forms of Krishna, and some believe they contain his spirit.

The ancient Vishnudharma Purana mentions Krishna being worshipped as Purushottama in Odisha. Also, in the 15th century, Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a great spiritual leader, helped spread devotion to Krishna in this region.

Besides Jagannath, Krishna is also known here as Nilamadhab, another form tied to his heart and divine love.

Literary Sources:

1. Vishnudharma Purana (c. 4th century CE)

• Mentions Krishna being worshipped in Purushottama Kshetra, which refers to Puri in Odisha.
• The term "Purushottama" (the Supreme Being) is used for Krishna/Vishnu.
• It describes the sacredness of the Purushottama Kshetra, where the deity resides and is worshipped by devotees across ages.  "Yatra nityaṁ nivasati puruṣottamo hariḥ..." "Where Purushottama Hari (Krishna) eternally resides..."

2. Skanda Purana-Purushottama Mahatmya (a section dedicated to Puri)

• One of the most detailed sources on Jagannath.
• Explains the origin of Jagannath, his wooden form, and the sacred nature of Nilachala (Puri).
• Mentions King Indradyumna’s devotion and the installation of the deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.  "Puruṣottama-kṣetraṁ nāma trilokeṣu viśrutam" "The land of Purushottama is famous across the three worlds."

3. Brahma Purana – Puri Kshetra Mahatmya

• Describes Jagannath as Krishna and refers to his cosmic form.
• Emphasizes the spiritual merit of visiting Puri.
• Includes legends about Krishna’s heart being worshipped in Puri after his earthly departure.

4. Narada Purana

• Also mentions Purushottama Kshetra and the worship of Krishna in his wooden form.
• Refers to Puri as a place where sins are washed away and moksha is attained.

5. Padma Purana – Uttara Khanda

• Talks about the greatness of worshipping Krishna as Jagannath.
• Highlights Ratha Yatra and the unique nature of this form of the Lord.

 

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