Chhattisgarh P.C.S. (Pre) 2019

Puri Temple Traditions

Authentic Past Paper Standard Evaluation

The idols of Lord Jagannath, Subhadra and Balbhadra in sanctum sanctorum at Jagannath Puri Temple are made up of-

Solution & Analysis

Answer: C

Concept Unlike most Hindu temples where the presiding deities are made of stone or metal, the Puri Jagannath tradition utilizes organic materials to represent the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Explanation The idols of Lord Jagannath, Subhadra, and Balabhadra are carved from 'Daru' (sacred Neem wood). Because they are made of wood, they are periodically replaced in a complex spiritual ceremony called the 'Nabakalebara', which occurs every 12 or 19 years.

Logical Breakup
Logic 1: The use of wood is a distinguishing feature of the Kalinga religious tradition, specifically identifying the 'Daru Brahma'.
Logic 2: Stone and metal are used for minor deities in the temple, but the primary trinity remains wooden to facilitate the ritual of renewal.

Active Recall

Question

What does 'Nabakalebara' mean?

Answer

It means 'New Body', referring to the ritual replacement of the wooden idols of the temple.

Core Insight

The wooden nature of the Jagannath idols emphasizes the Hindu philosophical concept of the transience of the physical body.