A Spiritual Oasis in the Heart of Hyderabad Shri Jagannath Temple
By Lokanath Mishra
As I stepped into the Shri Jagannath Temple on Banjara Hill, Hyderabad, on the evening of March 23, 2025, I was enveloped in a sense of serenity and tranquility. This magnificent temple, built by the Kalinga Cultural Trust, is a replica of the famous Puri Jagannath Temple and has been a beacon of spirituality and devotion since its consecration in March 2009.
The temple’s architecture is an artistic delight, with intricate stone carvings, beautiful sculptures, and stunning murals that adorn the walls. The temple complex is designed to resemble the Puri Jagannath Temple, with its Vimana/Devla (Garbha Gruha), Mukhashala (Jagan Mohan), Nata Mandir (dancing hall), and Bhoga mandap (offering enclave).
As I explored the temple, I was struck by the beauty and craftsmanship that has gone into its creation. The upa-Devalayams, dedicated to Lord Ganesh, Maa Vimala, Maa Laxmi, Sri Anjaneya Swamy, Lord Shiva (Kasi Viswanath), and Navagrahas, are equally impressive and evoke a deep sense of spirituality.
The temple’s lighting is a marvel, and the complex takes on a spectacular appearance at night. The murals on the boundary wall, depicting the history of the Jagannath temple at Puri, Dasha Avatar, and the mysteries and miracles of God and Goddesses, are both educative and enlightening.
The temple’s significance extends beyond its architectural beauty. It is a place of worship, where devotees can experience the divine presence of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple’s philosophy is rooted in the principles of sanctity, equity, discipline, and cleanliness, making it a sacred space for spiritual growth and self-reflection.
One of the unique features of the temple is the CHAKADOLA, a light and sound show that takes the viewer on a breathtaking journey through the evolution of the Jagannath Cult. Introduced in 2018, this show is a must-experience for anyone visiting the temple.concluded my visit, I was struck by the sense of peace and tranquility that pervades the temple complex. The Shri Jagannath Temple is a spiritual oasis in the heart of Hyderabad, a place where devotees can connect with the divine and experience the beauty and richness of Indian culture.
Temple Details:
- Location: Road No. 12, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad
- Consecrated: March 2009
- Built by: Kalinga Cultural Trust
- Replica of: Puri Jagannath Temple
- Features: Intricate stone carvings, beautiful sculptures, stunning murals, CHAKADOLA light and sound show
- Deities: Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, Subhadra, Lord Ganesh, Maa Vimala, Maa Laxmi, Sri Anjaneya Swamy, Lord Shiva (Kasi Viswanath), and Navagrahas.
