The origin of the Jagannath deity is open to several interpretations. The myth claims it to be a divine creation, while many historians see the tribal deity of the Sabaras transformed into Jagannath. An icon of Buddha was installed as Jagannath or Vishnu-Krishna by Adi Sankaracharya at the Govardhan Math, established by him at Puri. Therefore, Adi Sankaracharya should claim the credit for bringing in Jagannath as a Vaishnav deity. Jagannath in the present shape became the presiding diety of Puri as Purushottam-Jagannath and the worship of Jagannath trinity developed in Ganga period. Sudarsana was added and, therefore, the quadrangle worship. The influence on Jagannath was first recorded in Purushottama Mahatyamma, which is an interpolation in Skandapurana created in 12th century A.D. Indepth study by the author in the myth, mystique and historical evidence of the origin of Jagannath has brought new facts to light. They go counter to the traditional beliefs but reveal the title known side of the Jagannath story. An unorthodox and disturbing account, this new research work is a new milestone in the study of Hindu mythology and the cult of idol-worship.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Jitamitra Prasad Singh Deo
J.P. Singh Deo (born 29th August 1946), is an individual field archaeologist, Khariar. He is credited with the discovery of pre-historic rock shelter paintings of Yogimath Donger & Ghatghumar, Copper plates, gold coins of sarabhapuriya dynasty, clay & stone Seals of Panduvamsi dynasty, Kalachuri coins, terra-cottas, beads, sculptures of many types and palm-leave manuscripts. With the presentation of his findings, “Khariar Branch Museumâ€, was opened by Govt. of Orissa in 1976. His few archaeological findings are presented to “Dr. N.K. Sahu Museumâ€, of Sambalpur University and Orissa State Museum. He is life Member of Institute of Historical Studies. Calcutta, Orissa History Congress, Red Cross Society and Utkal Sahitya Samaj. President of “Khariar Sahitya Samitiâ€, which has already celebrated its Cultural Profile of South Kosala, “Origin of Jagannath Deityâ€, “Tantric Art of Orissaâ€, “Character Assasination in Modern History of Orissaâ€, and has contributed to different research Journals, Bulletins, Periodicals, Magazines, Papers and edited Books. Receiver of “Ekamra Samanâ€, 2002 and has been facilitated by many Organisations.
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