Jagannath Mandir, located in Hauz Khas, New Delhi, is a beautiful and spiritually vibrant Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and the Lord of the Universe. The temple serves as a significant spiritual center for the Odia community in Delhi, but it welcomes devotees and visitors from all backgrounds with open arms.
Established in 1969 by the Odia community, this temple was built to provide a sacred space for worship and to preserve the religious and cultural traditions of Odisha. Over the years, it has become not just a place of devotion but also a hub for cultural and social gatherings, deeply rooted in the teachings of Lord Jagannath and Vaishnavism.
The main deities worshipped in the temple are Lord Jagannath, his elder brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, the divine trio worshipped primarily in Odisha’s famous Jagannath Temple in Puri. The idols in the Hauz Khas temple are carved in traditional Odia style, made from neem wood, and are repainted and reinstalled in a ritual known as Navakalebara, similar to the original tradition in Puri.
The temple’s biggest festival is the Rath Yatra (Chariot Festival), held annually in June or July. During this time, the deities are taken out in a grand procession on a beautifully decorated wooden chariot pulled by devotees, accompanied by kirtans, bhajans, and thousands of worshippers. This event draws a massive crowd from all over Delhi and recreates the energy and devotion of the world-famous Puri Rath Yatra on a smaller scale.
Architecturally, the temple is built in the traditional Kalinga style, with a tall shikhara (tower), intricate carvings, and peaceful surroundings. The white-and-red temple structure stands out amidst the greenery of South Delhi and offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The temple complex also includes halls for community functions, cultural programs, and spiritual discourses.
Inside, the atmosphere is serene, with chants of Hare Krishna, the smell of incense, and the rhythmic ringing of temple bells. Devotees participate in daily aarti, bhajans, and prasad distribution, making it a lively spiritual center. The temple also organizes charitable activities, free meals, and spiritual lectures throughout the year.
Jagannath Mandir is not just a place of worship; it is a center of unity and cultural preservation. Whether you’re a devout follower of Lord Jagannath or simply a seeker of peace and divine energy, a visit to this temple leaves the heart uplifted and the mind calm.
Address:
Jagannath Mandir
C-Block, Safdarjung Development Area (SDA),
Near Hauz Khas, New Delhi – 110016, India
📍 Nearest Metro Station: Hauz Khas (Magenta & Yellow Line)
Author: lekbesi
lekbesi