• Source:JND

Jagannath Temple History: New research regarding the construction history of the world-famous Shri Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, reveals a surprising and untold mystery. Recent research claims that the original builder of the temple was not a king, but a master craftsman named ‘Pall’.

This revelation is based on ancient inscriptions and archival evidence, challenging long-held historical beliefs and offering a fresh perspective on the temple’s origins.

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Researchers say the key evidence comes from an ancient stone inscription found near the Nrusingha Temple complex within the Jagannath Temple premises. The opening lines of the inscription, written in Sanskrit, state that the construction of the “Nava Purushottama Nilaya” (the present Shri Temple) was led by ‘Kulaputra Pall’.

Craftsmen Often Overlooked in History

Until now, historical accounts credited King Anangabhima Deva III of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 12th century with building the present temple structure. While royal patronage undoubtedly played a role, the new research asserts that the actual architectural planning, craftsmanship, and foundational construction work should be attributed to the master craftsman Pall.

Researcher Deepak Kumar Nayak explained that the inscription not only helps date the temple’s construction more accurately, but also throws new light on the artisan traditions, the role of the karmakar community, and the architectural practices of that era.

Historians view this discovery as an important step toward better understanding Odisha’s rich cultural and religious heritage. It also highlights the critical, and often under-recognised, contribution of local artisan communities and traditional craftsmanship to iconic religious sites like the Jagannath Temple.

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Jagannath Temple Shrine History: More Discovery Ahead

Experts believe this new finding calls for a re-evaluation of the temple’s construction history and further research. A deeper study of additional inscriptions, copper plates, and archival records could uncover many more unknown facts about the Shri Jagannath Temple.


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