The annual Puri Yatra is set to begin within a few days, and millions of devotees arrive at the Jagannath Temple to become a part of it. Three deities, Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Goddess Subhadra, are taken to the Gundicha Temple in three massive chariots. However, before the beginning of this grand and auspicious festival, you must know some interesting yet strange facts about the Jagannath Temple that still surprise devotees. 

Strange facts about the Jagannath temple 

Before the beginning of Puri Yatra 2026, check these strange facts about the Jagannath Temple that never fails to shock the devotees. 

1. Position of Chakra

Among several other strange facts and mysteries about the Jagannath Temple, the chakra (wheel) baffles many people. For the unversed, the chakra weighs approximately one ton, and it is fascinating how the engineers in the 12th century placed it on the top of the temple. Moreover, it will also appear to be facing the observer no matter the direction.

2. Where is the shadow?

The Jagannath temple has no shadow, and its reason remains a mystery even centuries after it was built. Irrespective of the sun’s position in the sky, the temple casts no shadow.

3. No one flies above the temple

In India, the sight of birds flying in your neighbourhood is quite common. However, not even a single bird is sighted flying over the temple, and no one knows why. Airplanes also avoid flying over the Jagannath Temple in respect.

4. A difficult daily ritual performed by priests

A priest reportedly climbs the temple daily to change the flag, and it is an impossible task as the temple is equal to climbing a 45-story building. It is believed that the temple will shut down in over 18 years if this ritual is not performed daily.

5. No sound of waves

After entering the temple, the sound of the sea stops. This is also a mystery to many, leaving the devotees in awe of the architectural brilliance of the temple. There are several legends behind this occurrence. One of them is that this is because of the wish of Goddess Subhadra Mayi, the sister of Lord Jagannath and Lord Balabhadra, who wanted serenity in the temple.
 
 
Thousands of devotees visit the Jagannath Temple during the Puri Yatra every year. This year, the festival will begin on July 16. 
 
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(Image Credits: shreejagannatha.in)