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Saga of Jagannatha and Badadeula at Puri

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Lord Jagannatha is another form of lord Vishnu. The origin and the myths about him are vast and shrouded with mystery. There are not many books and treatise on him. Whatever is available is sketchy and describes only a few commonly known facts and episodes. Thus, except for the local people of Puri many are unaware of the various legends, stories and folktales about him.
The recently published book “Saga of Jagannatha and Badadeula at Puri” is a unique effort by the author who has put together many interesting legends and folktales about lord Jagannatha and his temple Badadeula that are hitherto unknown to many.
The book written in plain and simple English describes the story of lord Jagannatha and the various theories surrounding him- Tribal, Vedic, Jain and Buddhist. It also deals with the description of his temple Badadeula at Puri and the minor and major shrines within its precincts. The book also goes on to give a detailed account of the important festivals of lord Jagannatha and daily and periodic rituals of worship of the Lord. Last but not the least it gives an insight into the Mahaprasada - the food offerings to lord Jagannatha.
In addition, there are several annexes describing the fables and legends associated with lord Jagannatha,and the alien invasions on Badadeula and Puri.
Apart from dealing with the main topics in detail, the author has included a brief account of Puri and its surrounding areas which would be useful for the devotees and visitors.
In short, the book is a complete book on Jagannatha and his abode at Puri.
Dr. Kabi Prasada Mishra, an eminent cardiologist and an authority on Jagannatha cult, in his Foreword writes “The book is concise and heavily illustrated yet comprehensively lucid and profound in its approach on the subject. Undoubtedly, it is highly informative and interesting to the readers and is one of the most comprehensive books on Lord Jagannatha in the English language”.
Prof Sitikantha Mishra while going through its manuscript finds it a valuable treatise both from religious and tourism point of views. A book worth reading. It unravels the mysteries of lord Jagannatha, and his cult.
The book can be had from the publisher. The book is also available as E- book.

370 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2014

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About the author

J.C. Mahanti

2 books

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Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews
Profile Image for Sunayana Bhatnagar.
1 review54 followers
August 16, 2014
Recommended by my mother who read this book. It is very well written and i learned a lot about puri and the legacy behind Jagannatha. I hope one day I can visit puri and see the places as the author has described. All those who are wondering whether or not to buy this book. I say purchase it online and get down to reading it. It will be one of the your best buys.
Profile Image for Madhupriya Senapati.
17 reviews4 followers
October 27, 2021
Orissa is oftentimes identified with Puri and as the land of lord Jagannatha. This book is beautiful- profound yet lucid.

The book groups facts and narratives into the following four categories:
i. Lord Jagannatha
ii. The temple at Puri, called Badadeula
iii. The festivals of Jagannatha
iv. Mahaprasada

Personally, it was interesting to learn why does the grand deity look the way it does and many other interesting tales about this national heritage.
I am sure my now next visit to Puri will truly help me appreciate this wonder of a place even further.

A great handbook for anyone who is planning to visit Puri and is keen on understanding the stories and science behind it .
Profile Image for Romina Nayak.
5 reviews
August 22, 2025
The book gives a good overview of Puri, Lord Jagannath, His fables, rituals and festivals. The author has managed to capture the essence of Lord Jagannath and the spirit of Puri. The book is structured in a way that it can serve as a guide to someone visiting Puri and an interesting read for anywho who wants to learn about Lord Jagannath. I am an Odia living out of Odisha and I learned a lot from this book and I highly recommend this book.
Displaying 1 - 3 of 3 reviews

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