Shree Gundicha Temple Puri
Gundicha Temple, nestled in the spiritually vibrant city of Puri, Odisha, holds a special place in the hearts of devotees. Puri is renowned for the Lord Jagannath Temple, also known locally as Shree Mandira, which is a major pilgrimage site.
Gundicha Temple, located just 1.5 km from Puri Junction and 3 km from Sri Jagannath Temple, is one of the most renowned Hindu temples in Puri. It plays a central role in the annual Ratha Yatra festivities and is a must-visit destination in Puri.
Gundicha Temple is situated at the end of the Bada Danda or Grand Road, a significant thoroughfare that links it to the Lord Jagannath Temple. Connection is not just physical but also deeply symbolic, as the Gundicha Temple is affectionately referred to as the aunt’s house of Lord Jagannath. Endearing term highlights its importance during the annual Rath Yatra festival, when Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra, travels from the main temple to the Gundicha Temple, symbolizing a visit to their aunt’s home.
Gundicha Temple History
Gundicha Mandir Temple, also known as Gundicha Ghar, was built by Gundicha Maharani, the queen of King Indradyumna, who founded the first Jagannath Temple. Situated next to the Jagannath Temple, it is affectionately referred to as the aunt’s house of Lord Jagannath. During the Rath Yatra festival, Lord Jagannath, along with his siblings, is moved to Gundicha Temple for a seven-day stay.Temple is also called the Garden House of Lord Jagannath due to its beautiful garden setting.
Gundicha Temple is steeped in fascinating legends. One legend tells of Gundicha, the queen of King Indradyumna, who was a devout follower of Lord Jagannath. Her deep devotion led Lord Jagannath to promise her a visit during the Ratha Yatra. Another legend suggests that Gundicha Ghar is the home of Lord Krishna’s adoring aunt, Gundicha, who welcomes the deities with a special rice delicacy called padoapitha.
Shree Gundicha Temple Puri Architecture
Temple’s architecture is a marvel, built in the distinctive Kalinga style with intricate stone carvings. It is surrounded by a 20-foot high and 5-foot wide wall, and consists of several structures: Vimana, Jagamohana, Natamandapa, and Bhogamandapa. The entire temple is constructed from light gray sandstone. Inside, there is a plain raised seat called Ratnavedi, where the deities are placed during their stay. The temple has two gates: the main western gate and the eastern Nakachana gate. Deities enter through the west gate and exit through the east gate. The temple is maintained by the Jagannath Temple Administration, Puri.
During the Ratha Yatra, Lord Jagannath, Lord Baladeva, and Subhadra Devi leave Jagannath Mandira for nine days – one day to travel to Gundicha Temple, seven days spent there, and one day to return home. This journey is known as Gundicha Yatra, Nava Dina Yatra, or Ghosa Yatra. It is considered highly auspicious to have darshan of the Lord during this time, known as Adapa Darshana. Each year, the Ratha Yatra culminates at this temple, surrounded by lush gardens and tall, cooling coconut trees.
Gundicha Temple Timings
Timings: 6 AM – 3 PM & 4 PM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Rs.5 per person
Gundicha Temple Photos
Where is Gundicha Temple Located?
Gundicha Temple Located in Balagandi, Basanta Rd, near to Gundicha Temple, Puri, Odisha 752002.
Distance Between Srimandir to Gundicha Mandir
Distance between Srimandir (Lord Jagannath Temple) and Gundicha Mandir is approximately 3 kilometers. This short distance is significant during the annual Ratha Yatra festival, as it marks the journey the deities undertake from Srimandir to Gundicha Mandir and back.
Why Jagannath goes to Gundicha Temple?
Lord Jagannath’s journey to Gundicha Temple during the Ratha Yatra festival is deeply rooted in tradition and mythology. Annual event symbolizes the deities’ visit to their aunt’s house, where they stay for seven days. Key reasons behind this significant journey:
During the nine-day festival of Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), the idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Subhadra Devi are taken in chariots from Shree Mandira to the Gundicha Temple. This journey is also known as Gundicha Yatra or Ghosha Yatra.
It is believed that during their seven-day stay at their aunt’s house, the deities rest and savor special delicacies prepared with love and devotion. This period is a time of joy and reverence, as the deities are warmly welcomed and cared for in the tranquil setting of the Gundicha Temple.
On the ninth day, the deities on their return journey to Shree Mandira, an event known as Bahuda Yatra. Return journey is a grand spectacle, drawing a large number of devotees who gather to witness the elaborate rituals. Being present for both the Rath Yatra and Bahuda Yatra is considered highly auspicious, enhancing the spiritual experience for the devotees.
Gundicha Temple is often called the Garden House of Jagannath due to its serene and lush surroundings, offering a tranquil retreat for the deities and devotees alike. Temple, with its unique cultural and religious significance, adds to the rich tapestry of Puri’s spiritual heritage.
Jagannath Temple to Gundicha Temple Distance
Distance between Jagannath Temple and Gundicha Temple is approximately 3 kilometers.
FAQs
Are there any entry fees for Gundicha Temple?
No, there is no entry fee to visit Gundicha Temple.
What is the significance of Gundicha Temple during Rath Yatra?
During the Rath Yatra, Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Subhadra Devi are taken in chariots from Shree Mandira to Gundicha Temple. Journey, known as Gundicha Yatra, symbolizes the deities’ visit to their aunt’s house.
Can foreigners visit Gundicha Temple?
Yes, unlike the main Jagannath Temple, foreigners are allowed to visit Gundicha Temple during the Rath Yatra period.
What are some interesting legends associated with Gundicha Temple?
One legend states that Queen Gundicha, a devout follower of Lord Jagannath, requested King Indradyumna to build a temple for the deities. Another legend suggests that Gundicha Ghar is the home of Lord Krishna’s aunt, who welcomes the deities with a special rice delicacy called padoapitha.
What is the architectural style of Gundicha Temple?
Gundicha Temple is built in the distinctive Kalinga style with light gray sandstone. The temple complex includes four main parts: Vimana (sanctum), Jagamohana (assembly hall), Nata Mandira (festival hall), and Bhoga Mandapa (hall of offerings). The temple is surrounded by a garden and a high wall.
Whose wife is Gundicha?
Queen Gundicha was the emperess of Avanti and the wife of king Indradyumna.
Who lives in Gundicha Temple?
Gundicha Temple, located in Puri, Odisha, is primarily vacant throughout the year. During the annual Ratha Yatra festival, it becomes the temporary residence of Lord Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra. Deities stay here for seven days, symbolizing a visit to their aunt’s house.
