SHRIJAGANNATH,

THE SUPREME LORD OF UNIVERSE

Sri Purna Chandra Dash
Dedication:
This book of whatever worth is dedicated to the Gajapati Maharaja Sri
Sri Dibya Singh Dev, not only for the fact that he is the representative of
people of Odisha in the domain of Odishan religion and culture in the context
of national integration and solidarity but also for the fact that having
possessed the highest legal degree (Bar at Law) from a foreign University he
did not choose to address any one else as ‘My Lord’ other than Sri Jagannath
in reverence to his Parampara (tradition) and for giving due honour to Sri
Shankaracharya in commemoration of Adi Shankaracharya having retrieved
and installed Sri JagannathMandira,Puri. .

Sri Purna Chandra Dash

Author.

Om Sri Ganeshaya Namah

Introductory :

In Kali Yuga Materialism as a demon has almost devoured Spiritualism

leaving mankind in complete disarray.Adding insult to injury the so-called
religious mentors in their insatiable craze for self-aggrandisement have posed
as Demi-Gods pleading grant of liberation (Mokshya) to the gullible mass
lured by them as disciples. Bereft of required resources,health and education
and as such victim of blind faith, occult etc. the man in grief falls a prey to and
is lured by the machinations of Sadhus-apparent. It is not denied that there
are Sadhus, Hermits in real but they constitute the miscroscopic minority far
inadequate to cater to the needs of the Society. The pretenders brought up in
particular cults unhesitatingly tend to override the predecessor or even
disown the founder of the Institution they were born of .To cite an example or
two, it is said that in one culture the Sadhus, namely, Sanatan Goswamy and
Rup Goswamy reached the pinnacle of renunciation by abandoning even the
Ghat or Stone they were bathing on for a few months or so. But in complete

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detraction from them one of their successors not only lived in a monarch-like
style, carved his name in vehicles but also showed himself superior to them in
intellect by saying that he deserved credit for composing the Bhagabat Geeta
purportedly in its original form. He also did not hesitate to brand other Gita
writers as mundane on the assumed ground that they are devoid of Krishna
Tatwa. He has not enumerated what is the Krishna Tatwa which he only
knows and not others.He has not also disclosed the method of assessment by
which he was convinced of his knowledge on Krishna Tatwa and its absence in
others. Had he disclosed all this, it would have given an opportunity for the
so-called mundane to mend their ways and make up their deficiency, if any
and served as guideline for future Gita writers. In the absence of
elucidations, his aspersions cannot be taken on face value. Even accepting
his views as correct on face value for the sake of argument, the ostentatious
behaviour offends the principles enunciated by the founder of Vaishnaba
Dharma running as under :

“ Trinadapi Sunichena Tarorapi Sahishnuna, Amanena Manadena

Kirtaniya Sada Hari” .(Meaning : think yourself as small as grass, show
tolerance as tree, give honour even to the undeserving and pray to God at all
times.)

Apart from such individual misfeasance in abuse of providential grace,

another Institutional blunder needs mentioning. Here some members of a
particular Institution to which they belonged disowned the founder of the
Institution, the renowned Hindu Saint (Kali Bhakta) but for whom they had no
identity. They were apparently imbibed by vested interests with wrongful
gains arising out of Governmental minority concessions, They moved the High
Court and failing, approached the Supreme Court with a ludicrous prayer to
extricate them from Hinduism. The Apex Court dismissed their petition in the
year 1995 solely on the ground that the Founder of the Instituion based it on
Hinduism and therefore the petitioners could not get out of it.

Both these events are related with the limited purpose to bring to the fore
that placed as saviours of the religious Society to whom people look for
guidance, the mentors seem bewildered in the ethics they were wedded to .

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They do not practise for themselves what they preach to the disciples.
Hypocrisy seems to be the all pervading monster throttling the smooth course
of deliverance in spiritual arena.

This cryptic religious topsy turvy not less than anarchy caused by fake
preceptors requires the common man to fend for himself in the matter of faith
and endearing God, It is not as insurmountable as feigned by the so-called
Gurus posed middlemen for salvation, having not touched the fringe of it for
themselves owing to their deceitful character and brinkmanship..The
Sumukham, Suhrudam, Sulabham Sukhadam Parameshwar protects and
uplifts His children,with or without solicitation. Which loving father will see
His child doomed in despair or Hell ? In testimony hereof is a harrowing
experience of a man escaped from jaws of death in recent past
(October,2019) to stand as a live example. It is like this. A petty grocery
trader, by name Amrit Kujur, started his voyage with stuff on sea from
Andaman that rendered him castaway owing to cyclonic waves. Dropping
the trading commodity and a companion in the ocean, he was all alone left
on the mercy of Almighty with sea water for sustenance.It was only after long
28 days that his boat washed ashore near Khirisahi village bordering Chilka
lake in Odisha. Apparently, God willed, . after priliminary food and shelter in
the village he was brought to Puri, the abode of Sri Jagannath, where he was
given adequate medical treatment. On fitness, he was sent back home
(Andaman) with a new lease of life. Thanks to the Collector, Puri for the
timely humanitarian treatment he meted out to the affected (a Christian)
holding high the name of Srikhetra, undoubtedly at the behest of Sri
Jagannath. The pertinent question before heretics and scientists to ponder is
as to who made the man survive only on sea water so long and who brought
him to Srikhetra. Is it not the charisma of Providence ?

Now reverting to the point having regard to indidual efforts free from
clutches of bogus tormentors on thinking of God, one could develop implicit
faith on God that entitled Arjun to be privileged with Vishwarupa Darshan to
the exclusion of all others The acts like Dhyana(Tapasya), Yoga, meditation,
Dana(Piety) required for a healthy body and mind are not in negation but
secondary to pleasing God as is evident from “ Na

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Bedayagnadhyanarnadaneih Nacha Kriyavirna Tapovirugreih” (Gita Ch.11
Vr.48). .Another aspect of the matter is unstinted love for God as discernible
from implorations of Radha and the Gopis in Brundaban known as Gopi
Prema inconceivable to contemplate far from practice but not impossible if
one turns attention to Meera Bayee who galloped the poison sent by her
husband.

In either case man is put to acid test as to the density of faith or intensity
of love. He/she has to cross over the illusions set by the Almighty Himself,
dragging man to be selfish with attachment on body, property, name,fame
alluring wrongful gains etc, - all components of “ Youbanam Dhana Sampati
Prabhutwam Abibekita” - detracted from piety or spirituality. “Triguna Raju
Haste Dhari, Mrugi Nachae Narahari” as under :

“Ishwara Sarbhutanam Hrudeshworjuna Tisthati Bhramayan Sarba Bhutani

Yantra rudhani Mayaya “ ( God resides in the hearts of all creatures and
misguides them through illusions .(Gita Ch.18 Vr61) .

This could be overcome with a clarity of mind and charity of heart It is

difficult to adopt but not impossible if one sincerely practises it within the
ambit of -

“ Prajahati Yadakaman Sarban Partha Manogatan Atmanebatwana Tustah

Sthitapragyanstadochyate” (Who leaves aside all desires and is content with
the self is Shitapragyan – (Gita Ch,2 Vr.55 ).

Crowning of all is the most egoistic “ I “ the mother of all vices. It often turns
a man into a demon. The man championing the said “ I “ fails to perceive that
it steals his sense, conscience and prudence. He hovers around with a false
sense of pride distancing himself from others in society. What to speak of God
or spirituality? To say the least, the man is doomed for his pride, resurrection
from which is far from easy, The remedy for this is in what Sri Krishna
suggested to Uddhav in course of reply to Uddhav’s query “Where could “ I
“ get you Lord after your departure from Dwarika”?. Lord reprimanded
Uddhav curtly by saying -

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 “ Uddhav Mane Rakhithibu “Mum” ( I ) Male Krishnaku Paibu” – Uddhav
remember, only when your “ I “ is killed you will get Krishna (me). In other
words, the ominous “ I “ is so powerful that keeps at bay the omnipresent
and omniscient God.

Achare Laxmi:

In such fortuitous circumstances the author, fully alive of the cruel effect
of “ I “ has scrupulously avoided its use and stepped into the scenario as a
third person to speak few things as contained in the book laying stress on
“Achare Laxmi Bichare Panditah “ Laxmi is pleased with good behaviour and
puts man in the right track of dharma (righteousness) by which man
improves further in spending his wealth for welfare of society, poor
feeding(Narayan Seba) . giving charity etc. and resultantly makes his path
smoother to God in line with -

“Dhana Arjile Dharma Kari Dharme Prapata Narahari”(Bhagabat)

. Bichare Pandita means consciousness is the guard against wrong doings,

misconceptions etc. and protects what is earned through Achare Laxmi.

In light vain once Narada seeing Mahaprabhu taking a banana asked

whether the Chhapan Bhog was inadequate or the banana was superior to
it. With a smile Mahaprabhu replied, ” Narada you are perhaps not unaware
of the Verse 26 Ch.9 of Bhagabat Geeta reading :

“ Patram Puspam Phalam Toyam Yo mae Bhaktya Prayachhati Tadaham

Bhaktyupahrutamashnami Prayatatwanah “ Means One who offers Me a
drop of water, a flower or a leaf with his full heart I accept it delightfully. It
excels the Chhapan Bhoog(56 items) what to speak of the banana since

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offered in the like manner. Mahaprabhu also took Narada to Dwapar Yug
when Bhakta Bidur entertaining Sri Krishna with banana, actually offered the
scrap and not the banana which he dropped down for having forgotten his
own existence in the auspicious presence of Sri Krishna. Debarshi Narada left
acquiesced.

Ever inquisitive Narada would not rest there and at the sight of Mahaprabhu
sitting in Niladri as a Darubhuta(still like a wooden Log) Narada asked why it
was so? Mahaprabhu lamented :

” Ekeba Bharya Prakruti Mukhara Chanchalasa Dwitiya Ekeba Putra

Tribhuban Bijayee manmatha Durnibara, Smaram Smaram Swagruha
Charitam Darubhuto Murari”. As earlier stated Mahaprabhu represents
Himself as Lord Krishna and expresses His grief that He has become mute like
the log because one of His wives is garrulous while another is mobile so
swift as not to stay any where a moment. The next predicament is that one of
His sons,Manmatha, libidinous in nature, has conquered the three world
(Swarga,Martya and Patal) attracting every one to his quality.

In reply to a question of Narada as to where does He live, Mahaprabhu said

as under:

“ Naham Tisthami Baikunthe Yoginam Hrudayenacha Madbhakta Jatra

Gayanti Tatra Tisthami Narada”. Mahaprabhu made it absolutely clear that
He does not stay in Baikuntha, not in the hearts of Yogis immersed in
meditation but in the Bhajans, Kirtans in congregation without fear or favour,
let alone meticulous care. Kirtan paves the way for an easy exit from the
clutches of earthly hum drum in Kali Yuga. The bhajan has been composed by
Sri Chaitanya said to be an incarnation of Lord Krishna. In all humility the

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author cautions agaist any pseudo religious leader intervening and
misguiding simple illiterate mass who could choose a leader from amongst
themselves by rotation just to maintain discipline in the gathering. Thus they
will have direct link with the God and attain liberation if the expectation of
the author is not belied.

Confrontation :

Distinguished Readers are now taken to the Satya Yuga to dwell upon a
confrontation between sages Vishwamitra and Vasistha on the relativity of
Tapasya vis-à-vis Satsanga. While Viswamitra maintained that Tapasya (
meditation in Isolation) is more powerful than Satsanga(congregation),
Vasistha held the reverse view. .Unreconciled, both went to God Shesadeba
for solution of the difference. . The God said,”I hold the 14th World. Both of
you try with your respective power. Who will be successful in stilling the
Earth, his view will be considered as superior to other’s”. Viswamitra’s trial
with power of Tapasya failed and Vasistha’s Satsanga power succeeded. God
Seshadeba then declared that Satsanga is more powerful than Tapasya. To
elucidate further, Satsanga is the congregational devotion in shape of
religious discourse, bhajan or kirtan as envisaged by Sri Chaitanya and brings
Narayan down to Earth to be with the devotees. Adi Sankaracharya has
therefore in reverence to Rishi Vasistha has proclaimed that through the
process of Satsanga one could achieve Mukti ( salvation) :

“Satsangatwe Nisangatwa, Nisangatwe Nirmohatwa, Nirmohatwe Nischal

Tatwa ,Nischaltatwe Jivanmukti”.

Daru Brahma

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It is a fact that after Dwarika Leela Lord Krishna renounced His human body
but the Nabhi Kamal unburnt came to Puri as Daru Brahma which took the
shape of Sri Jagannath.Balabhadra and Subhadra. Rig Veda says Sri
Jagannath is Daru Brahma :

“Adou Jodaru PlabateSindhohPare Apurusham Tadalabhaswa Durhuno Tena

Jahi Parama Sthalam “.

Puri – Superb:

The place Puri is superb in the context of whole World. Kapila Samhita
describes as under :

“ Varshanam Bharata Strestha Deshanam Utkalasmrutah Utkalasya

Samadesha Desha nasti Mahitale Bharata cha Utkal Deshe Bhuswargah
Purushottamah “(Meaning- Bharatavarsha(India) is superior to all countries
,Utkal (Odisha) in all States while Puri is the holiest (heaven) in the Earth.

Mahima Shastra corroborates:

:”Bharate cha Utkal Deshe Bhuswarga Purushottame. Daru rupi Jagannath

Bhakti nama Bhayaradah”

The staunch Hindu belief places Puri Srikhetra at the zenith as follows:

“ Jale cha Badrika Ashrame Sthale cha Gokule Statha. Jale Sthale cha
Antarikhye Mukti cha Purushottame”. (meaning –Mokshya is sure if some
one dies in water in Badrika Dham as also dying on land in
Gokula(Brundaban). But one gets salvation at Puri irrespective of his death
either in water, earth or space(sky).It is therefore known as Sankha Nabhi
Mandal assuring quick results of Parikrama (likening Brundaban), chanting
Mantras (hymns), Yoga, Pranayam, Samadhi.

Kapalamochan:

A legendary event concerning Purushottama Khetra is like this. Lord Shiva for
some reason or other, beheaded Brahma but the face of Brahma stuck to His
palm.Uncomfortable, Shiva roamed around the Universe including ashrams of
rishis but no remedy.Lastly Shiva approached Lord Vishnu. Regretting inability

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Vishnu directed Shiva to visit Puri Srikhetra. On His visit to Puri the face of
Brahma got detached from His palm whereafter Lord Shiva came to be
known as Kapalamochan and in memory thereof, if one visits or takes bath in
Kapalamochan and Manikarnika Ghats in Puri he is believed to be free from
Brahma Hatya. Yet another memorable incident is that pleased with the
Tapasya of Rishi Markandeya at that place Lord Shiva appeared as
Markandeswar Mahadev and is being worshipped as such since then.

Jalabhisheka:

As per custom from time immemorial Jalabhisheka(pouring water) is done on

Lord Shiva every where in the month of Baishakh( March-April), so also in
Srimandira.Only on one day Abhishek is done with 200 garas(big kalash type
utensil) on Lord Ishaneswar. While on all days Paduka(dropped down water
after bath) was available, on the particular day with so much of water used
not a single drop would be available for the purpose of Paduka – a sign of
complete evaporation of water. It appears as a wonder done by Lord Shiva
like Lord Vishnu in the line of -

“ Shivaya Vishnu Rupaya Shiva Rupaya Vishnabe Shivasya Hrudaya Vishnu

Vishnocha Hrudaya Shiva”.

For this surprising feature Lord Shiva is called Swayambhu. Any way, it adds a
feather to the cap of Srimandira the abode of Sri Jagannath.

Paduka Nala

One faith-provoking event needs mentioning. That is, once the Paduka Nala
(drain) existing under the Garbha Gruha’s north side was choked owing to a
big stone blocking the channel. The servitors who used to clean the nala by
earthen pots during Abakasha and Dhoopa Nitee got tired after 14 days of
failure. The last resort was to pray to Sri Jagannath. The Master of Pancha
Bhoota invoked the Lightening which pierced into the premises and smashed
the stone bringing the situation to normal.

Blue Light :

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 Once a blue light was, as published in the magazine ‘Mirror’, stretching
towards the Space infinitely. It was so inflamming as to burn instantaneously
any thing coming in the way The Western Scientists at first thought it was
coming from Asian Continent,. Some time after they opined the blue light
was coming from India. But the inconclusiveness persisted upto Puri via
various places in Odisha. At last the scientists concluded that the blue light
emanated from Sriimandira, the house of Sri Jagannath. Materialistic point
apart, it strengthened the spiritual belief that even in a complete darkness in
Puri Town the Temple would be visible.

Visit of Sir C.V.Raman :

The world famous Indian Nobel Laureate Scientist Sir C.V.Raman visited
Srimandira,Puri in the year 1955. In the course of his round he reached the
Ganesh temple near Kalpa Bata known as Bata Ganesh. It was a thrilling
experience for him to see the mouse in front of Ganesh made of a very rare
quality of stone available in India. From mythological episode it is said that
the stone on which Ganesh sat in Kailas in obedience to orders of Mother
Parvati not to allow any one inside that triggered fighting with Lord Shiva is
the one of which the mouse was made. The then Gajapati King brought that
stone from Kailas and ordered construction of mouse from that stone.

Sir C.V.Raman was further surprised when he saw the Diamond chita(tilak)
on the fore head of Sri Jagannath on the birth day of the precious metal. That
was the day of Chitou Amabasya. Although as a scientist he knew the birth
day of Diamond but wondered that the Odisha masons, artisans were aware
of it. That is how they decorated Mahaprabhu with diamond on the
particular day.

Sir Raman was also astonished to know that the Temple was built on a place
facing the hazards of flood and high tides of the Ocean. In fact, before
construction of the Temple the Odiya architects appearently conducted
intensive surveys over the nature of the wind , the Arabian Sea, Indian Ocean
and the Bay of Bengal and insulated against the vagaries and vulnerability of
adversaries by plugging the loopholes that might endanger the stability and
security of the temple under contemplation. With such meticulous care and

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cautions far exceeding the acumen and skill of the engineers and scientists
the temple known as Srimandira was built by the Utkaliya artisans

Incidentally, it is stated that in the recent past a thick copper plate mixed
with othe thunder sensitive materials was inserted from Neelachakra to the
well near Maa Bimala’s temple to protect Srimandira from the ravages of
lightening, thunder etc. but is understood to have been replaced by a thinner
plate later on the reason for which is not in public knowledge.

Underground Network :

Same was the skill and foresight appear to have been applied with which the
inlets and outlets of Srimandira were designed as per Vastu Shastra .Thus
one way goes from Padukanala (North of Store room (Bhandara ghara)
underground to Markanda Pond. Similarly in the South one way goes from
Garbha Gruha to Sweta Ganga Tank. One more way goes from West side of
Garbha Gruha to Mangalaahat River in the West. During Mogul attack the
deities were carried in palanquin to an island in Chilika Lake through the
under ground route via Mangalahat River and worshipped there. One way
runs under ground from old Palace to the Baisi Pahach..

In ancient times the Gajapati Kings were making Andhari Bije through this
route to reach the secret gate and take required quantity of gold and
jewelleries for management of the temple.

Inasmuch as the net work of passages in Srimandira is intriguing a novel idea

was introduced to indentify the places of origin of the underground passages
from the ground surface which also adds to the beautification of Srimandira
The spots are thus covered by Padma Pada (Lotus Feet) . The symbol of lotus
feet is available in the southern side close to Kalpabata and Bal Gopal temple.
The under ground passage leading to Sweta Ganga is also spotted by lotus
feet symbol. The lotus feet symbol for passage from western side of
Srimandira connecting Mangalahat.is found near Radha Krishna Temple.
Siimilarly the lotus feet symbol of Sri Chaitanya indicates the origin of passage
connecting Markandeya Pond. This is the charisma that does not find any
parallel any where.

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 Baisi Pahach:

The Baisii Pahach is constituent of twenty two steps symbolising the wenty
two letters of the popularly chanted Narayan Stotra “ Sri Krishna Gobinda
Hare Murare Hey Natha Narayan Basudeba”. Each step has been identified
with Devis(deities) vide ‘Sribaschha Khandasal Temple Construction Sculpture
Sastra as under :

1st Step –Tibra, 2nd –Kumud Bati, 3rd- Mala, 4th –Chhando Bati, 5th – Dayabati
,6th –Ranjani, 7th-Ratika, 8th- Roudra – 9th – Krodha, 10th- Badrika, 11th-
Prasarana, 12th- Brati, 13th-Marjani,14th-Jati,15th-Rasta,16th-Sandipani,17th-
Ajapani

18thMadanti,19th-Rohini,20th-Ramya,21stUgra,22ndKhyobhini

Their blessings are showered on the persons, specially children, rolling on the
Baisi Pahach.

Categorical Division:

The Temple is divided into five categories. First Bhog Mandap(Bhanda Ghar),
next Nata Mandap, then Pokharia (Chandan Argali) where barricade exists,
then Anasara Pindi and finally Garbha Gruha. The intrinsic values attached to
them are as follow. The Bhog Mandap is Annamaya Kosha, Nata Mandira is
Pranamaya Kosha, Chandan Argali is Gyanamaya Kosha, Anasara Pindi is
Vigyanamaya Kosha and finally Garbha Gruha is Anandamaya Kosha. Earlier
it was mentioned to abandon the 22 vices. After this one has to leave Anna-
asha and Bhojan asha(lust for eating), then Prana-asha(hope for living). Thus
forgetting body consciousness, only with the help of Gyana-
chakhyu(knowledgeous vision) one may have Darshan of Mahaprabhu and
with the help of Vigyana-chakhyu (scientific vision) have the insight of
Mahaprabhu in the pattern the fisherman washed the lotus feet of Sri Ram
before rowing Him to the other side cf the Ganges with Laxman and Seeta, To
commomerate the deeper insight of the fisherman Kabi Samrat (Emperor of
Poets) Upendra Bhanja has written :

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”BigyaniKaibartaDhoila Bishwe Patitapaban
Nama Rahila”.

Oblique Manifestations :

Oblique are the manistations of Sri Jagannath, even difficult for Shesadeba
to comprehend. Mahadev with His Panchamukh(five mouths) was unable to
complete chanting the glories of Sri Jagannath in which Goddess Sarada also
failed. Vedas failing in comprehension called Mahaprabhu Neti Neti. Where
lies human being, in the periphery, numerous anecdotes annotations
antiquities notwithstanding ?

Dhyanam

Dhyanam of Sri Jagannath as composed by Brahma present on Baishakha

Shukla Ashtami upon istallaation of Trinity (Jagannath, Balabhadra,
Subhadra) in Srimandira by Raja Indradyumna is ornamented in Odishi Nrutya
at its starting point running as under :

“Niladri Shankhamadhye Shatadala Kamale Ratna Singhasanastham

Sarbalankara Juktam Nabaghana Ruchiram sanjuktam chagrajena.
BhadrayaBamabhageRathacharanajuktamBrahmarudendra Bandyam
Bedanam SaramisamSwajana Paribruttam Brahmadarum Smarami”

Rama,Krishna,Kalki

Sri Jagannath, needless to say, is the embodiment of “Shesansha Rama

Jadunandan Kalki Rupa”. To begin with, after winning the battle in Sri Lanka,
killing Ravan and retrieving Seeta, Bibhisan was installed on the Throne,
Rama with Seeta and others started for Ayodhya On the spur of the moment
Bibhisan asked whom should he worship in His absence. Sri Ram replied :

“Aradhyaya Jagannatha Ikhwaku Kula Daibatam Aradhaniya Manisham

Devanam Basabaisah”(meaning worship Ikhwaku incarnation Jagannath,
the Istadeva of Suryavansa at Puri.).

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 Bibhisan evidently visited Puri every night camouflaged. As a prelude, as
appears from ‘Lanka Darshan’ and ‘Bata Abakasha’ written by Bhakta
Balaram Das, ovation per excellence was afforded by Bibhisan in SriLanka to
Sri Jagannath Mahaprabhu with whom Balaram Das was also graced to visit
Sri Lanka in Space. But the disgrace that was in store for Balaram Das was
that on return Mahaprabhu left His bracelet with Balaram Das not within his
knowledge. The bracelet was not found in temple but in the house of Balaram
Das .He was arrested, humiliated in society for no fault of his. Mahaprabhu
appeared in dream of Gajapati King and revealed the truth that Balaram Das
was in no way instrumental to the alleged non-availability of the bracelet in
the Temple.Then the King lost no time to get him released and restored his
name and fame.

One day Bibhisan was detected in his own appearance in Srimandira by

Patajoshi Mahapatra. From ‘Bata Abakasha’ it reveals that Bibhisan
donated his bracelet to Patajoshi’s forefathers which is preserved duly locked
in the chamber of Dwarikanath Patajoshi Mahapatra in Harchandi Sahi, Puri.
Once attempt was made to unlock the chamber But hearing some hissing
sound from inside the matter was laid to rest at that stage.

However, the glamour of Bibhisan’s visit to Srimandira is well illustrated by

the Arati (bandapana) offered to him in Jagmohan facing south every year
after return of the Trinity to Srimandira during Car festival. Nephew of
Dwarikanath Patajoshi Mahapatra and son of Ramakrishna Patajoshi, Sri
Janardan Patajoshi have taken the leadership of Chhatisha Nijog. .

If Lord Ram in Treta Yug (12,96,000 yrs) conceived Sri Jagannath as His
incarnation as aforesaid, Lord Krishna of Dwapar Yuga (8,64,000 yrs) was
perceived in Sri Jagannath in the following words :

:” Jagannatha je Sholakala tahun Kalaae Nandabala. Kalaru Sholakala kari

Gope Bihare Narahari”.(means while Jagannath is of sixteen calibers, by
taking one kala(caliber) from Him Narahari(Sri Krishna) plays in Gopa
(Brindaban). In corroboration hereof, Adi Shankaracharjya has stated “ “Bhuje
Sabye Benu Sirashi Sikhipuchham Kati tate Dukulam Netrante Sahachara

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Katakshyam Bidadhate. Sada Srimad Brundabana Basati Leela Parichayo
Jagannathaswamy Nayana Pathagami Bhabatu Mae” (Adorned in all
manifestations of Sri Krishna).

Thus adding Kalki in Kali Jug (continuing) Sri Jagannatha is in Srikhetra ever
since Treta Yug, leaving habitation in Satya Yug for the ‘Anadi
Ananta’(uncertainty of origin and endless) Mahaprabhu to be conceptually
realized in the larger perspective of evolution of Earth..

Leader of Utkal:

. Utkalamani Gopandhu has seen Sri Jagannath as the Leader of Utkal :

“Utkale Netara Nahin Prayojana Utkalara Neta Swayam Narayan”

The leadership of Narayan (Sri Jagannath) in defending Kalinga (Utkal) King

and upholding the prestige of Utkal is glaring in the Kanchi Abhijana
(invasion).. Briefly stated, Gajapati King Purushottam Dev was looked down
upon as a Sweeper for his doing Chhera Pahara in the chariots of Trideva in
car festival by Kanchi Raja who,under such ill-conceived notion, declined to
offer his daughter Padmavati in marriage with him. Offended, Purushottam
Dev invaded Kanchi but returned without success. Intuitionally a second
attempt was made and the battle was won bringing Padmavati whom the
King married. As the byproduct Kanchi Ganesh was brought to Puri installed
in Srimandira in the back side of main temple. By opening the Pandora’s box
one would find that the winning of battle was due to Sri Jagannath and
Balabhadra who proceeded to Kanchi, fought tooth and nail in the guise of
Warriors on white and black horses. Feeling thirsty on the way they quenched
their thirst with curd supplied by a milk woman by name Manika Gauduni.
Unable to pay the cost of the curd in Kaudi (then legal tender) Sri Jagannath
handed over His Diamond ring which Manika, not knowing its value or utility,
was hesitant to accept. Mahaprabhu indicated that the Gajapati King with
soldiers was following to whom she would show the ring and get her price.
Manika acted accordingly. The King was astonished to see the ring belonging
to Sri Jagannath having gone ahead. Inwardly he felt the gravity of sanctity
and purity of heart of the illiterate Manika who could get the Darshan of

15
Mahaparabhu which is by far difficult for Devas, sages and others to achieve
in spite of their decades of devotion. Over- pleased, the King named the place
after the name of the milk woman as MANIKA PATANA which is enlivened in
the Revenue records and in pages of mythological History.

Patita Paban Bana:

This is to repeat that more than man defiant or ignorant, God is serious to
liberate him of his sins and put him in the right track.That is why
Mahaprabhu has taken the form of the flag hoisted on the top of Srimandira
in Neelachal known as PATITAPABANA BANA and is relentlessly inviting the
sinners to come to Neelachala (Purushottama) and free themselves from sin
and purify heart and soul for achieving Mukti(salvation)

Naba Kalebara

Mortality of birth is the eternal truth which does not spare even Gods – “
Jatasya hi dhrubo mrutyu”(geeta ch.2,vr,27) and Bhagabata says “ Martya
mandale Deha Bahi Debata hoile Marai”, Therefore in His human form
Mahaprabhu leaves His body and gets into a new body known as Naba
Kalebar after every 12 or 18 years when two Ashadha months occur in a
particular year. As per ritual customs Brahma enters into the new body form
with utmost secrecy in the dark mid-night. Brisk preparations are made In the
Naba Kalebara Celebration. keeping all concerned on their toes.They include
Daita Pati, Pati Mahapatra, Deula Karan, Chadhau Karan, Rajguru,Temple
Purohit and Srimandira Security force under strict vigil and monitoring from
Administrative machinery. They go in procession to Maa Mangala Temple in
Kakatpur (Odisha) and return after obtaining Agyanmala (order) from
Goddess Mangala. The Goddess indicates in dream the where abouts of Daru
(Tree trunks from which the Deities are carved). After location of Daru Yagna
is performed followed by tree felling. The Darus ( four in No.) are swaddled by
Pata Bashtra (silken cloth) and brought by bullock cart to Puri with blowing
of cunch, Kahali and beating of Ghanta, drums etc. The left out parts and
leaves of the tree are buried there. The Darus are then carried to Koili
Baikuntha of Srimandira through the North Gate.The new forms of the Deities

16
are carved there out of the Darus so brought. Instruments(musical) are blown
continuously at high pitch to keep the cutting sound of wood unheard of. It is
the common belief, if per chance some one hears the wood cutting sound, he
becomes deaf. After fifteen days of making the new kalebara of the Deities,
on an Amavasya(no-moon) night they are brought to Ballava Pindi where the
old form deities are already kept inside the temple. The Brahma from the old
is taken out and inserted in the new idols in complete isolation by Pati
Mahapatra duly blind-folded with pata bashtra.(silken cloth). The old forms
are then taken out and buried in Koili Baikuntha same night. Naba Jauban
Darshan is allowed of the Deities from next day morning. Similar to Lord
Krishna leaving body in Siali Lata in Dwapar Yug, the old bodies of the Deities
are left in Siali Lata in Koili Baikuntha in this Kali Yug. By this Mahaprabhu
reaffirms what Sri Krishna said in Bhagabat Geeta ch.2 vr.22 running as
under:

“ Basanshi Jirnani Yatha Bihaya Nabani Gruhnati Naroparani, Tatha

Sharirani Bihaya Jirna Nyanani Samjati Nabani Dehi.”

Mahaprabhu (Sri Jagannath) is entreated just like human being with all
paraphernalia of systems, habbits and necessities starting from brushing of
teeth, suffering from fever and taking medicines. This is demonstrated in
Mahaprabhu taking heavy bath on Snana Purnima, suffering in Anasar for 15
days cured by herbal medicines and ensuing Ghosha Jatra(car festival). It
should not be misconstrued for a moment that Mahaprabhu being in
Neelachal attending to rituals forgets or neglects His Universal duties and
responsibilities. Being in the hearts of human being Mahaprabhu keeps man
alive even by helping in digestion of food –

“Aham Baisanaro Bhutwa Praninam Dehamashritah PranapanaSamayukta

Pachamyanam Chaturbidham”(Geeta Ch.15,Vr.14).

Not knowing or ignoring the secrets and activities of God as Paramatma

residing in him, man commits the grave error of taking pride for himself as
the Karta of all he does or thinks –

17
“ Prakruteh Kriyamanani Guneih Karmani Sarbashah Ahamkara Bimudhatma
Kartarhamiti Manyate”(Geeta Ch.3 Vr,27).

All Big in Srikhetra:

If it is not mistaken for a brow-beating one could safely conclude that all
kinds of greatness are attached with Sri Jagannath and Srimandira. The road
of Srikhetra is known as Bada Danda, the temple as Bada Deula, the Deity as
Bada Thakura, the flag on the temple as Bada Neta, the Priest performing
Puja as Bada Panda, the Prasad as Mahaprasad. The Crematorium is
acclaimed as Swargadwara, the Crematrium inside the temple premises is
Koili Baikuntha The floral Mala is Bada Dhanda Mala.

Jewelleries :

In keeping with what is described above, one aspect of the matter cannot be
overlooked. That is about Jewelleries owned by Sri Jagannath Mahaprabhu.
History reveals, Utkal(Odisha) was stretched from River Ganges in the East to
River Godavari in the South. This was due to valour and vigour of the Utkal
Paik Sena under the stewardship of the Gajapati Kings who after conquering
the States used to bring large quantities of gold, silver and other jewelleries
and dedicate to Mahaprabhu. Equally strong and well guarded Bhandar ghar
(Store room) was built inside Srimandira. Normally human guards are
deployed any where from Security point of view. But miraculous is the system
prevalent in Srimandira. Sri Lokanath (Mahadev) is in charge of Bhandara
Ghara with Snakes, His most loyal bhakta, on 24 hours’ duty. There is one
more underground passage on the Southern side of Ishaneswara Shakti
through which jewelleries are stored in the Bhandara ghara(store house)
protected by Ishaneswar Mahadev. It is divided into two parts Inner part in
which non-movable items are stored and the other for movable items which
are drawn out on festive occasions, celebrations for use by Deities with
different Beshas. The system of drawal and return of Jewelleries is that one
Representative each of Gajapati Maharaja,Temple Administration and
Sebayats would enter together after unlocking the locks witheir respective
keys, make a list of items to be taken out which is signed by the three and

18
returned after use to the Bhandarghar under their signature. The inner room
with non-movable items is locked supported by an iron Gate. An arrow on the
Western side of the wall indicates the way to the Gate. At certain point of
time, the inner room was opened with some one tied in a rope entering into
the room with a torch light. There was no response from him to the waiters
outside. After a long wait, the man having not come out curtain was drawn
on hearing some hissing sound from inside. The passage was closed with
stone This vouchsafes for the actual presence of snakes guarding against
pilferage, if any. Mother Laxmi, Goddess of Wealth detracted from Trinity has
her own Jewelleries exclusive of what are briefed above in chambers under
ground stretched from Ratna Bhandar upto Her Temple. The quantity is so
enormous as to meet the expenses for breaking and re-making of Temple at
least for ten times.

Devi Charchika :

Once Goddess Charchika, the installed Deity of Banki(Odisha),visited Puri as

a common lady but wearing a Pata(linen) Saree and costly golden
ornaments. She barged into the sanctum sanctorium of Srimandira to have
Darshan of Mahaprabhu Sri Jagannath in spite of resistence from Pratihari
Servitor. Prabhu Balabhadra seeing Her near Ratnasinghasan was furious and
imposed a punishment prohibiting Her from entering into Srimandira for
twelve years. Sorrowfully aggrieved, Devi owned the mistake and begged
pardon. She was of course able to get the punishment withdrawn.
Nevertheless she was given to understand that unless she gained the
satisfaction of Bhitarachha Mahapatra, her Darshan of Sri Jagannath would
remain only in Her contemplation. Reluctantly compelled the Goddess rushed
to the house of Bhitarachha Mahapatra dressed as a Brahmin widow
projecting Herself a destitute. By this She succeeded in melting the mould of
stiffness of Bhitaachha Mahapatra not willing to give Her shelter as a maid
servant. With the permission of Bhirachha Mahapatra the Devi remained in
that house and did menial jobs like house cleaning ,fetching water, plucking
flower and arranging puja materials in the Thakur ghar before asked for. With
the passage of time She endeared the family members including satisfaction
of Bhitarachha Mahapatra. Her duration in the house was for not less than
19
twelve years. Probably feeling that was an opportune moment for Her exit
She created a scene one day.The Tithi was Ekadashi for Bhaktas of Narayan,
Bhitarachha returned in the evening to his house which was without light.
Those days did not see Electricity. Earthen pots were used as Dipa filled with
oil which was the only means of illumination. All of a sudden there was light
and Bhitarachha could enter into the house. But he was surprised to see the
Mahadipa of Srimandira in his house. On getting a no-knowledge reply from
his family members Bhitarachha turned his eyes towards the maid servant
who allayed his doubt, not immediately but on a quid pro quo understanding
that Bhitarachha should not disclose to others what she would tell and get
her exit from the house. On a solemn promise from Bhitarachha to that effect
the Devi revealed that She was Goddess Charchika and that She brought the
Mahadipa from Srimandira. In the admixture of fear that he ill-treated the
Goddess and favour that She put Her feet in his house, Bhitarachha let Her go
with due reverence. The Devi after fulfilling Her desire left for Banki But the
peace of mind of Bhitarachha was short-lived. As an impetuous he committed
the breach of promise he made to the Goddess to keep the matter secret. It
so happened that on the persistent insistence of his impervious wife,
Bhitarachha disclosed every thing to her in scant regard for the aforesaid
promise. The evil effect of disclosure as ordered by Goddess Charchika came
into play. Accordingly Bhitorachha in the tenth generation could not see the
eleventh generation of the dynasty he belonged to. Resultantly, the dynasty
grew with adoption from other family. In the process the present Bhitarachha
is Sri Madhusudan Mahapatra who is performing the rituals in Srimandira
Before parting with the topic it seems not inappropriate to speak few words
which may serve as a tail twister. Goddess Charchika had the patience to
spend as a maid servant for long twelve years only with the spiritual aim of a
Darshan of Sri Jagannath. Just look at the people with numerous material
desires for which they approach God. But on the slightest failure they not only
stop prayer but go a step further to annihilate Him. On the contrary, if they
pursue in right earnest with patience and perseverance they could reach the
goal according to the Theme “Seba Karpanya Bahu Bale Kiba Asadhya
Mahitale”.

20
Jagannath being the God of Gods( 33 crores in Hindu cult ) is ever cherished
for Darshan by one and all Deva and Manab’

Maa Mangala:

It is believed that Maa Mangala , Adhisthatri Devi of Kakatpur, about 60

k.ms. from Puri used to visit Srimandira at night and return before sun rise.
One day after getting Darshan of Mahaprabhu in Bada Singhar Besha
Goddess Mangala was returning to Kakatpur by air in a hurry to reach
Kakatpur before day-dawn. In that anxious moment Her golden bangle fell
down some where in the way which she was not aware of. She entered Her
temple as usual. In the morning the Priest having not found the bangle in Her
hand or in the temple raised a hue and cry. The matter reached the ears of
the Gajapati King who ordered arrest of the Priest. As usual, Goddess
Mangala appeared in dream before the King and asked the King to release
the Priest who was not guilty. The King released the Priest soliciting pardon
for the hurried action and conducted search in a paddy field as hinted by
Devi. The bangle was recovered. The owner of the paddy field, a Jamindar,
taking things for an auspicious occasion donated the paddy field in favour of
Goddess Mangala, the usufructs of which meet the expenses of day to day
rituals of Goddess Mangala.. Thence forward the paddy field is gratified with
the name Kankan Mahal..

SWARGADWARA:

As per folk tales. Once Lord Indra, descended on Puri and had Darshan of Sri
Jagannath in the guise of a King on Earth. He then turned up to Ananda Bajar
from where He gracefully enjoyed the Mahaprasad. In the absence of coins
He proceeded towards Sea Coast without paying the cost. The Mahaprasad
Vendor followed Him and asked Him to reveal His identity. Coming in the real
form He said He was Indra, the King of Gods. In appreciation of the bravity of
the Suar Lord Indra granted him a boon to the effect that Whenever or
wherever he invoked Rain, there would be rainfall. Indra left for
Swarga(Heaven) and the Suar succeeded in experimentation of the Boon. On
his calling rains came and the area people reaped the benefit. Such miracle

21
would hardly escape the ears of the Gajapati Maharaja who made the Suar
appear before him to disclose the source of the power he derived from.
Recollecting the warning of Lord Indra that in case he revealed the truth any
where, the Boon would lose its efficaciousness, the Suar was hesitant but
yielded to the coercive tactics adopted to extract the truth. He spoke out his
conversations with Lord Indra.. The Boon was thus rendered infructuous. The
Suar however mustered courage to lead the King to the exact spot on which it
all happened. Over pleased, the King named the place as Swargadwar and
rewarded the Suar, apart from monetary presents, with the new name for
him as MEGHAMALIYA SUAR . With the efflux of time Swargadwar has
assumed the status of Heaven since people cremated in the crematorium at
Swargadwar are believed to reach Swarga(heaven) irrespective of gravity of
sin committed by them.

GARBA GANJANA

The phrase ‘Garba Ganjana’ means demolishing one’s pride. It so happened

that once upon a time one Landlord, Ram Das by name. came all the way
from Uttar Pradesh to offer Bhog (Anna Mahaprasad) to Sri Jagannath.
Apparently polluted by “Adhyobhi Janabanosmi Konyosti Sadrusho Maya”
Vr.15 of Ch.16 Bhagabat Geeta, he created a flutter. His pride ended in a
laughter, let alone offering of Bhog. On his reaching Puri he announced to
offer Bhog worth Rupees one Lakh. Those days commodities were cheap so
much so that the total cost of Daily Mahaprasad was within fifty thousand
rupees. First, Suars were not accustomed to prepare double the quantity and
second, the dignity of Srimandira would be impaired if the order of the
landlord was executed. As was usual in such cases, the Servitors placed the
problem before Mahaprabhu. To create Fun Mahaprabhu advised them to
convey to the landlord that He would be happy to accept a Paan (betel leaf)
instead of Bhog and the Landlord should offer it to Him, not smeared with
lime (chuna) paste but with a paste of pearl of elephant. Now the landlord
remained dumbstruck because not all elephants are adorned with pearl.
Spotting out the specific elephant, engaging a herd of elephants to kill that
elephant, preparing paste of pearl with fire are all a herculean task. On this
singular stroke . he was brought to realization of Godhood. With folded hands
22
he begged pardon with promise to sever pride and donated his one lakh to
the Temple. It should not be forgotten that Sri Jagannath tolerated the
scoldings in Sarpa Janana (a prayer equating Sri Jagannath with snake) of
Kavisurya Baladev Rath but not what the landlord in the instant case
displayed, in the premises of “ Gali Mum Sahai Garba Na Sahai Dandake
Chuna Karai” (I tolerate rebukes but not pride that I smash then and there).

A wrestler from North India came to Puri and threw a challenge to local
wrestlers all of whom were defeated. This came to the ears of Sri Jagannath.
It is not a small defeat. It will tarnish the image of Srikhetra that there were
no wrestlers worth the name in Srikhetra. In the guise of a Suar with
Mahaprasad Kudua in hand Mahaprabhu feigned ignorance of the matter in
the Baisi Pahacha (22 steps) . Then listening from others Mahaprabhu in
blackish complexion rushed to Saradha Bali and challenged the wrestler for
fight. He took Mahaprabhu in disguise for a fig. He started fight and earned a
miserable defeat boardering death. He begged for life which was granted
.Donating to the temple what he had the wrestler left for his native place.
The Suar-apparent vanished from the spot.

In olden days there were intermittent sessions held between the Pandits of
Puri and Kashi to assess the knowledge in Shastras. Winnings and defeats
were vice versa.Once the Kashi Pundits cut jokes with Puri Pundis saying they
are lions. Puri Pundits retaliated by saying that Kashi Pundits are pigeons
mating every now and then while lions mate once in a year. Got furious, Kashi
Pundits put a latent question to Mukti Mandap Pundits who were in a
quandary as to how to answer the question. Sri Jagannath, Antaryami,
foreseeing impending defeat of Puri Pundits took the look as a Suar,
whispered to some one the correct answer, its source and mingled in the
people around. The Kashi Pundits getting correct answer and its source
admitted defeat and desisted from denigrating Puri Pundits. Mahaprabhu
thus upheld the glamour of Mukti Mandap.

Business Man:

23
Here is yet another topic more or less similar to the one related herein above.
One business man harboured pride that Mahaprabhu does not have much
jwelleries and therefore he would augment the quantum with diamond,
gems, gold silver et al. The servitors were in a fix as to how to decorate Sri
Jagannath with the voluminous ornaments which were falling down time to
time.They prayed to Mahaprabhu Who sorted out the problem in a very
simple way by advising Servitors to put a proposal that in one side of the
balance all the jewelleies be kept and on the other side only one Tulsi leaf.
Which side would go down, the contents thereof would be acceptable to Him.
With the consent of the business man it was so arranged. In the big balance
on which side the Tulsi leaf was kept went down and thus was proved
heavier. The business man came to realization that nothing material in the
world is worth competing with the depth of reverence to God. He donated all
his jwelleries to the Temple and left reformed.

Magaj Laddu:

A funny incident yet with an intrinsic value attached to it is with regard to sale
of Magaj Laddu (round shaped dry sweetmeat) by a servitor around Aruna
Stambha standing in front of Singha Dwara of Srimandira. Those days India
was under British control when people were afraid of atrocious British Police.
The Magaja Laddu seller was confronted by a Police Officer on patrol. The
servitor explained that his laddu, as the name suggests, controls the mind and
cools down temper which is a relief to men of hot temperament. The Police
Officer asked the servitor to take out from his thali ( a flat bottom round
utensil) some Laddus, put them in a Bhogei made of palm leaf and offer as
Bhog to Mahaprabhu but with strict warning not to take out any portion from
it as chanda (a conventional Vedic concept of a portion being taken by the
Priest) The Priests were equally afraid of such Police and did not take out any
thing from the Bhog. The Police Officer asked to weigh the Laddu again and
he was surprised to see that the bhog was less by one-fourth in weight of the
originally weighed Laddus. If not earlier, now onwards the Christian Police
started keeping faith in Mahaprabhu as a living God.

French Captain

24
 Here is a topic concerning another Christian, a French Captain, Beto by name
who developed faith in the magnanimity of Sri Jagannath and maintained it in
right earnest. At a point of time the Captain of the Ship sailing in the Bay of
Bengal fell in an impending danger of sinking of the ship losing men, money
and material due to a whale advancing towards the ship. He without loss of
time ordered all men on board to vacate the ship and save life with help of
small boats. But he saw one person sitting unmoved in the ship turning a deaf
ear to his repeated warnings. He was a merchant from Odisha, Kulasekhar by
name who in fact informed the Captain about the whale.. The furious Captain
took serious note of his defiance But Kulasekhar calmly reacted saying that he
was meditating upon Sri Jagannath Who, he was pretty sure, would wriggle
them out of the danger after a while. The Captain as an experiment also
joined Kulasekhar. He was not left belied as the whale turned its route
opposite to the Ship. Marvelled with joy the captain evinced interest to know
about Mahaprabhu. Kulasekhar apprised him. He came with his ship to Puri,
bowed before Sri Jagannaath in utter gratitude and donated all that he had in
the ship to Srimandira. It is not that easy to assimilate. Mahaprabhu came to
their rescue in appreciation of steadfastness of Kulasekhar, oblivious of come
what may in tune with -

“ Ananyaschintayanto Mam YE Jana Purjyupasate Tesham

Nityabhiyuktanam Yogakhema Bahamyaham” (Geeta Ch. 9 Vr.22)

. The notable gift made by the Captain was a ringing Bell. That is still hung in
the western side Garada ghar of Srimandira as the mute witness to the glory
of Mahaprabhu elucidated in this Episode..

Tantrik:

Once one Tantrik came to Puri in a peculiar manner. He sat on a banyan tree
probably in the periphery and made his way to Bada Danda along with the
tree He climbed down, entered Srimandira where he was told he could not
have Darshan as Mahaprabhu was in Anasara gruha and under treatment for
fever. Notorious Tantrik would not reconcile with the situation. In the form of
a black bee he stepped into the Anasara gruha. There he saw ladies standing

25
with lotus flowers. Lotus is one of the biggest impulssance of black bees. He
sat on a lotus which was closed immediately putting the Tantrik in peril of life.
Caught in his own net he started chanting hymns in praise of Sri Jagannath
Black bees could make hole in wood but are powerless to do so in a lotus.
Due to grace of Mahaprabhu the lotus opened and he came out. There was
then no pause for the Tantrik to measure his length within. Wholly ashamed
and humiliated he came to realize that Sri Jagannath is the Master of all
Tantras who created the unusual scene in Anasar Gruha of bringing ladies
with lotus flowers. He begged pardon and left.

Bhanda Bhog.:

One Sanyasi (ascetic /Spartan) seeing Bhanda Bhoga in Bhog Mandap cast
doubt that Mahaprabhu except what is offered in front of Him does not take
the Bhog in Bhog Mandap. Some servitors advised him to stand behind
Gaaruda during Bhanda Bhog. He did so and to his amazement and
amusement he saw that two elephants (black and white) keeping one foot
each near the garbha gruha and the other foot near Jaya Bijaya entrance
using their trunks eating the bhog from kuduas simultaneous to puja with
chanting mantras going on. Later he also saw one hand loaded with
ornaments was touching the kuduas which after exhaustion were getting
filled with fresh bhogs. He regretted for his foolishness armed with pride.
Then he left admitting his mistake.

Sri Chaitanya:

Sri Chaitanya, believed by some as an incarnation of Lord Krishna, visited

Srikhetra for a Darshan of Mahaprabhu when Sri Jagannath Das was
composing the Odiya Bhagabat under the Kalpabata (tree). While Sri
Chaitanya standing behind Garuda was offering a garland to Mahaprabhu
through his Manas Puja(in mind,theoretical), the garland was falling down
time to time, Sri Jagannath Das was viewing the situation through his
Antarschakhyu (mind’s eye). Telepathically Sri Jagannath Das advised him to
untie the knot of the garland and offer to Mahaprabhu which he did and
Mahaprabhu accepted the garland. All that state of surmise and conjecture

26
came true when both met each other. Sri Jagannath Das explained the cause
of failure of Sri Chaitanya saying inter alia that Mahaprabhu, the Param
Brahma, is not confined to any bondage like the Jiba encircled by illusions,
Maa Jashoda miserably failed to tie up Sri Krshna unless He so opted to
redeem Nala Kubera and Manigriba, the estranged sons of Kubera turned into
trees namely Jamalarjuna cursed by Devarshi Narada. God is Mayadhar and
the illusions are also His creation to test the man on the touch stone of strict
adherence to Godhood, as enshrined in Bhagabat Geeta Ch.7 Vr.14-

“ Daibihyesha Gunamayee Mama Maya Durataya Mameba Yye

Prapadyante Mayametam Taranti Tae”.

. There after the tie of mutual friendship and love was complementary to
each other besides Sri Chaitanya conferring the title of ‘Ati Badi’ on Sri
Jagannath Das.

Geeta Gobinda

During the reign of Gajapati Kings a question bobbed up as to which Mantra,

Stotra or Bhajan pleases Sri Jagannath. Some pointed to Bhagabat, some
Ramayana, some Mahabharat, some to Geeta, some to Geeta Govinda and
so on. The divergence of opinion kept the matter unsettled. Finally in presence
of the King in the Garbha Gruha all the religious scriptures, Purans,
Geeta,Bhagabat and Geeta Gobinda were kept one after another in an
orderly manner. The door was closed and sealed in presence of the King. All
left the premises. Next day morning the room was opened in presence of King
and others While all books remained intact, some pages of the Geeta Gobinda
codex composed by Bhakta Kabi Sri Jayadeb were seen opened thus carving
out a distinctive status for Geeta Gobinda. It left not an iota of confusion in
the minds of the viewers as to which book pleases Sri Mahaprabhu most. The
King then ordered that from that day onwards the Devadashis(unmarried girls
dedicated to the worship and service of the Deities for the rest of life) should
recite Geeta Gobinda in their dance in the Garbha Gruha during
Pahuda(sleeping hour) of the Deities. This custom is still in vogue.

27
Curse turned Boon:

Here is a topic in which the episode ends with conversion of a Curse into a
Boon. Balaram Das who is briefly referred to earlier herein was the primus
interpares(first amongst the equals) in the realm of. Pancha Sakha consisted
of Achyuta,Balaram,Ananta,Jagannatha and Jashobanta. Balaram Das was
the author of many scriptures and Purans in the domain of religion and Odiya
culture. To top the list was the Laxmi Puran which bears testimony to his
being an ardent apostle of Goddess Laxmi. This Purana is popularly recited
every Thursday (especially in the month of Margasira) in temples and houses
of Hindu families followed by Puja and Arati.. The only snag with Balaram Das
was that after Darshan of Mahaprabhu while making Darshan of Mahalaxmi
he would make taunting remarks like She is Teri(strabismus/cross-eyed), Her
father is salty etc. Balaram Das became habituated to this and as such fell a
victim to the curse of Mahalaxmi that he would die in a lonely place and
nobody would be there at the time of his death, Humorous Balaram took it
with the same spirit. After many years when Balaram was going alone
through a forest that became his last day. Calm and quiet he sat in
meditation with glimpses of Sri Jagannath in his mind’s eye. Brooking no
delay Mahaprabhu was about to proceed on the back of Garuda when
Mahalaxmi intervened asking where Mahaprabhu was going Sri Jagannath
replied that He was going to one of His devotees in danger. Mahalxmi was
however successful in Her request to accompany Mahaprabhu. Upon seeing
the presence of both Laxmi-Narayan there, delightfulness of Balaram Das
crossed the barrier that without the curse of Mahalxmi he would not have the
rare opportunity of having the Darshan of the consort, prostrated and
breathed his last, obviously getting Sajujya Gati eliminating re-birth, very
hard to achieve in common parlance

Sanyasi :

Few years back one abstainer Sanyasi with Jata ( long hair) visited Puri and
had Darshan of Sri Jagannath. Some people asked him what was his
conception of Mahaprabhu and how they would be free from sins and earthly
bondage. He replied,”If you stand in front of Sri Jagannath, His Eyes like an X-

28
Ray machine will detect all your vices and remove them making you detached
from all material aspirations to devote more on spiritual attainments for
Mokhshya (liberation). After Darshan of Mahaprabhu don’t revert to earthly
affairs” he warned and left.

Clairvoyance:

A brief narration of a typical incident with a mystic insight is made here.

Once upon a time a Sanyasi sitting near Patita Pabana close to Singha Dwara
of Srimandira was begging for coins from selected few returning after
Darshan of Mahaprabhu. One servitor taking him for a fool advised the
Sanyasi to beg from every one coming out from the temple so that his
begging bowl would be filled up soon The reaction of the Sanyasi to this
proposition was strange. He put his hand on the head of the servitor and
provided him with a temporary Clairvoyance. According to New Testament all
that glitters is not Gold. The servitor saw not all men returning after Darshan
were human beings Some were beasts, some snakes,some frogs and so on.
. There were very few human beings whom the Sanyasi could detect and
begged coins from them. The Sanyasi asked the servitor to disclose and the
servitor unfolded what he saw. The Sanyasi said how could the non-human
beings give him coins. Providing food for brains of the people assembled
there the Sanyasi left the place and disappeared some where on the Grand
Road. What could be the food for brain ? Will it be incorrect to assume that
the left out persons by the Sanyasi were beasts and ferocious animals in the
garb of human beings eating out the very vitals of humanity, society and
religion?

Pathani Samanta :

The famous astrologer Samanta Chandra Sekhar (nick name Pathani

Samanta) who was the author of SIDDHANTA DARPANA. had no inhibitions in
speaking out the truth even if it was fore-telling of the date,time and
manner of one’s death. For this he incurred displeasure of the Planets feeling
disturbed in their system of working. The Planet Brihaspati (Jupiter) in the
guise of a stunning Brahmin met Pathani Samanta in the Baisi Pahacha of

29
Srimandira. Praising him as a great astrologer Brihaspati asked him to tell
the where abouts of Brihaspati at that moment. Starting from sky of Asian
continent, en route India, Odisha, Puri District and Srikhetra Pathani Samanta
spotted Brihaspati just standing before him. Brihaspati was really stunned at
the accuracy of calculations of Pathani Samanta. Brihaspati without the
slightest reservation showered on him a bundle of blessings climaxing with
Pathani Samanta would be a world famous astrologer. In order not to
discourage him but mitigate with the sanctity of astrology, Brihaspati related
before him the harrowing tale as to how the planets were put to difficulties
because of his telling to a person details of his death. On hearing that on a
particular date and time by falling into a well he would die, the man hid
inside a room to cross over that fatal moment. He was destined to die which
could not be altered. So Indra was obliged to send rains reinforced by thunder
and lightening to that area, he had to come out for urination because of rain,
fell in the well and met his end. Pathani Samanta bowed down before
Brihaspati with the promise not to fore-tell death any more. Brihaspati then
disappeared..

Doctor’s experiment .

A Bengali Doctor practising in America once came to Puri with his mother. He
had Darshan of Mahaprabhu but was reluctant to sip the Prasad Abakash
water as it was mixed with tulsi, sandal paste, bits of flower etc. in spite of his
mother’s persuation. But he took some water in a small bottle and returned
to America where he conducted a laboratory test of the ingredients of the
water and found there was nothing injurious to health. On the contrary he
appreciated the medicinal value thereof. First of all the Tulsi leaf helps
controlling cold and cough. The ghasa water cleans the stomach and
increases appetite for food. Abakash water puts the stomach in order and
controls blood pressure. Tender coconut water increases digestion power. The
sandal paste mixed with Abakash water purifies the body and cures diabetes
and heart disease. The camphor used in Arati keeps eyes clean and disease-
free. Added to the physical benefits, because of religious faith attached to it,
one’s mind is also purified keeping the evil thoughts aside. On hearing from

30
her son about all this, his mother came to Puri again and begged pardon for
her son’s heretic attitude,

Hair found in flower :

Once just by the time Gajapati Maharaja was about to visit Srimandira to
have Darshan of Mahaprabhu Talichha Mahapatra (one type of servitor) saw
Tulsi and flower missing from the head of Mahaprabhu. Talichha was at his
wit’s end. Having no flowers near by to lay hands on, he took out the flower
from his head and put on the head of Mahaprabhu. The King arrived and had
Darshan after which he was offered Prasad along with flower. Unfortunately
the King found hairs in the flower and asked how it happened.. Getting no
immediate reply, Maharaja left the matter to be cleared next day.. That was a
sleepless night for Talichha Mahapatra brooding over what was in store for
him next day, even though Mahaprabhu consoled him not to worry. Next day
when Gajapati came for Darshan he saw a bunch of hair on the head of
Mahaprabhu. Suspecting foul play of using wick, he pulled some hair from
the head of Mahaprabhu when blood oozed out. Maharaja felt having
committed a great offence and solicited pardon from Mahaprabhu, the
Protector of Servitors. In memory hereof, a garland worn by any one during
Bala Bhog in the month of Kartika will not wither and the flowers remain
fresh till next morning. Similarly, the bada phula(flower) dhandamala (large
thick flower garland) offered to Mahaprabhu does not wither which is a
unique feature as compared to other deities whose garlands wither away in
temples else where. .

Sleeping arrangements:

Uncommon is the sleeping arrangement for the Deities(Jagannath,

Balabhadra and Subhadra) who are conceived as living Gods behaving like
human beings as revealed from Snana Purnima, suffering, treatment ending
in Car festival. as .depicted herein before. There is no wonder, therefore, to
comprehend use by the Trinity of the pillows seen in disorderly manner,
unfolding of blankets placed on the three ornamented cots in the room and
even the silken chaddar (body wear Khandua Pata) fallen from the body stuck

31
to the cot. No intruder could come in to be suspected because of tight security
system under lock and key. The Pratihari Servitor, knowing as he does, would
shout in the morning near the door “ Manima Manima (Your Majesty) Pahuda
Bhangantu “(Please get up).This is the daily routine. Simultaneous thereto is
the Mangal Arati with beating of drum, playing of flutes and other musical
instruments coupled with bhajans sung in chorus, a heavenly consortium one
would hardly miss.

Dhokadi Entrance:

It seems no stone is left unturned in the process of converting heretics to

ascetics as is evident from the main entrance of garbha gruha of Srimandira
identified as DHOKADI ENTRANCE . The Entrance is so named on experiment
that the moment a person enters the garbha gruha through main entrance
he expresses to have forgotten his past and got into a new phase of life
dedicated to Mahaprabhu This is just like a magnetic touch of Sri Jagannath
on him akin to Patita Paban Bana (Flag) inviting sinners to come and be
relieved from sin.

Concept of Sakar / Nirakar:

The cetralised theme of God realization is “Om” which is derived in vacuum

i.e. without any spot or symbol.This was achieved in ancient age by Rishis. The
‘Om’ is the combination of three letters ‘A’ ‘U’ ‘M’. In Satya Yuga these
letters represented Brahma, Vishnu, Maheswar. In feminine form were Maha
Kali Maha Laxmi and Maha Saraswati ornamented in Saptasati Chandi
conspicuous in Markandeya Puran that created, maintained and destroyed
the Universe known as Pralaya. Incarnations of Param Brahma (Eka Brahma
Dwitiya Nasti) were upto Baman Rupa in Satya Yuga when Sadhakas used to
concentrate on OM (without any body or form). They were successful because
they were in full conformity with what was in Dwapar Yuga enshrined by Lord
Krishna in Bhagabat Geeta Ch,17 Vr.14-“

“ Brahmacharyamahimsascha Shariram Tapa Uchyate”

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 This means Physical Tapa(meditation) is perfect only of the persons free
from libido and jealousy/violence This quality of man started deteriorating
gradually from Treta Yug onwards flattening its vigour and valour in
regression. The estranged mind castrated of conscience and prudence fell into
the ditch of non-concentration when the urge for concentration became a far
cry. As already stated earlier the Sumukham, Suhrudam Sulabham Sukhadam
Param Brahma without procrastination made Himself available before the
devotee to conserve and preserve concentration tending towards liberation.
Nevertheless, a Word of caution seems appropriate for those who would
themselves proclaim or feel proud that they have achieved or are going to
achieve concentration. By this they would lose concentration for ever. The
reason is that by this feeling they distance themselves from the God they may
be meditating upon. Putting in a nut-shell, thinking of concentration would
drag them to body consciousness the FORGOTTENNESS of which is only
concentration; otherwise it is a ‘misnomer’ In order to be faultless having
regard to concentration one has to put his vessel on an even keel.

The Nirakar Brahma ‘OM’ then came into being as Sakar in the form of Ram,
Laxman and Sita in Treta Yug, Krishna,, Balaram and Subhadra in Dwapara
and Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra in Kali Yug which is continuing. Just
as for beginners in addition to writing an alphabate or a word a photo or
drawing is hung signifying it, same is the system to attract people, even a
passer by. to have a glimpse of God with a form (idol) for worshipping. Here
also the degree of success and consequential Mokshya will vary depending
upon the quality of man – Satwik, Rajasik or Tamasik, honest or hypocrite.

Given the situation that man succeeds in concentration, can he be nearer to

Almighty, here Sri Jagannath ? Doubt arises, when conduct, behaviour and
surrender to God are taken into consideration. Firm faith in and surrender to
God make the sum total like fearlessness, doubtlessness and non-thinking of
tomorrow in line with -

“ Sarbatha Bartamanopi Sa Yogi Mayee Bartate” Geeta Ch.6 Vr. 31 ( Lord

Srikrishna said, the Yogi who always lives in PRESENT is attached to HIM).

33
Living in Present:

Living in PRESENT eliminates the scope of seeking and getting astrological

fore-tellings about future to which probably 90% of people now a days are
addicted. Bhrugu Samhita is the immeasurable gift of Maharshi Bhrugu to
mankind for their welfare in a broader horizon and not for individuals (except
for fixing dates for auspicious occasions). This is not the intention to denounce
or discredit ASTROLOGY. It is so venerable that Sri Krishna identified Himself
with Maharshi Bhrugu, the inventor of Astrology “ Maharshinam
Bhruguraham” (Geeta Ch.10 Vr.25). It is therefore idle to hazard a guess
against Astrology but its abuse. In astrology, mainly calculation is meant for
determining positions of planets vis-à-vis Earth as a precaution against
calamities and disturbances. From ethical point of view also individual
endeavour towards knowing future is an affront to “Sarbatha Bartamanopi”
quoted above which a sane man with the slightest inkling with God will ill-
afford. Man is ordained to enjoy the fruits of his past life and rarely present
life. Conscientious men put up with it – good, bad or indifferent. Only
cowards tend to run away by taking help of astrology but how far ? God’s Will
cannot be thwarted by any stretch of imagination save as a temporary relief.
What is lotted cannot be blotted. For those resorting to such tactics are left
with the option either to offend God or please God desisting from
astrological experiments on self-centred cause. Choice is theirs.

Bhajan Kirtan:

With a view to easing the hardihood of Godhood distinguished readers are

brought to the fair and free platform of mass Bhajan Kirtan as envisaged by
Sri Chaitanya that vibrates the atmosphere and drags Lord Vishnu from
Baikuntha Dham. But the fly in the ointment is the uncalled for intervention
of so-called religious masters claiming leadership therein that mars the mirth
of God descendance on earth. The anti-biotic for its eradication is provided
herein before to be recollected in the present context. There is only one
exception to this, which the Readers may not take exception of. That is, the
Brahmins are not participants in such gatherings because they are bound by
Parampara(tradition) to perform Vedic rituals in temples, at home besides

34
reading Vedas and Upanishads purifying heart and soul, air and atmosphere.
Any deviation from this would incur the displeasure of God within the
meaning of Geeta Ch.3 Vr.35.

“Swadharme Nidhanam Shreyah Paradharmo Bhayabahah” (better to die in

own culture than conversion to others which is dangerous).

This includes not only inter (non-Hindu) religions but also intra entities not in
tune with Vedas. Neetis in temples like Srimandira and houses are performed
by Brahmins who normally start with Sandhya Bandan with Gayatri Mantra
early in the morning at home or in bathing place or temple. Time permitted,
a Brahmin is at liberty to join any organization or congregation in addition
but not in conversion or substitution. From what is stated above it is crystal
clear that God (Sri Jagannath) has bestowed compassion and mercy more on
non-Brahmins than Brahmins. The case of Biswabasu(aboriginal) in relation to
Neela Madhab, Sabari(SC/ST) in case of Sri Ram, Kubja(Vaishya) concerning
Sri Krishna and Dasia Bauri (untouchable) connecting Sri Jagannath are
glaring examples of Super Brahmins within the purview of -

“ Chaturbarnyam Maya Srustam Guna Karma Bibhagashah”( Ch.4, Vr.13) or

“Brahmana Khyatriyabisham Sudranam cha Parantapa, Karmani
Prabibhaktani Swabhabeirgunei”{Ch.18 V.41) of Bhagabat Gita.

.Bhakta Bhima Bhoi (1850 – 1895), a tribal Kandha of Rairakhol in Odisha

(India) had gone far beyond the conceptual stretch of philosophy by saying -

“ Mo Jeevan Pachhe Narke Padithou Jagata Udhhara Heu”( means:.Let the

World be liberated at the cost of my life going to Hell).

It is gratifying to note that this unique conception of Bhima Bhoi has found
place in Indian Parliament as well as the U.N.O. This undoubtedly outshined
the philosophy adumbrated by philosophers like Confucius, Rishi Tolstoy or
other Prophets.

Origin of Patita Paban:

35
Just on entry to Sri Mandir one would see Patita Paban facing the Lion’s Gate,
the very first to receive obeisance from pilgrims. As the nomenclature
connotes, it is the one in wholesome of Trinity redeeming the down-trodden.
Its installation has a horrendous heart-wrenching past as briefly described
here. As per Madala Panji, in 16th century India turned into an Moghul
Empire, feeble resistance notwithstanding, from Khurda Raja restoring
independence for a while. Sri Mandira fell a prey to intermittent attacks by
bigots necessitating concealment of idols in various places like Chilka Island,
Merda jungle of Athgarh(Ganjam), Sonepur(Western Odisha), as temporary
measures. The Moghul atrocities assumed an insurmountable proportion
during the reign of Naib NazimMahamed Turky Khan stationed at Odisha
Capital Cuttack . The then Gajapati Maharaja, Sri Ramachandra Beb (II), for
protection of Sri Mandir and the deities including Trinity found his conversion
to Islam as the last straw on camel’s back. If Bhima Bhoi pledged life
theoretically for mankind, the Gajapati Maharaja sacrificed practically his
name,fame and religion at the altar of Srimandira with Jagannath,
Balabhadra,Subhadra whom he was wedded to. Consequently, as per the
time immemorial custom, the Maharaja was prohibited from entering into Sri
Mandira and prostrating before Mahaprabhu on Ratna Simhasana. What an
irreparable and inconceivable loss for him indeed ? If in case of Sal Beg
Mahaprabhu waited on chariot unmoved to make him memorable, the
Maharaja was made immortal by Mahaprabhu having ordered installation
of His idol as Patita Paban in Singha Dwara enabling the Maharaja, so
converted and, for his sacrifice, millions and millions of people from
prohibited class or community to have His Darshan standing at the Gate
outside the premises of Srimandira.. Speaking historically, the installation of
Patit Paban took place in 1706 by servitors of Sri Jagannath.

Stress on Parampara(Tradition):

Despite classification as per Bhagabat Gita referred to above, without any

effort but by virtue of birth a Brahmin has been in the highest esteem of God
within the meaning of “ Brahmanasya Mukhamasid” (Purusha Suktam). Let
it not go by default by the Brahmins by not adhering to their
Parampara(tradition) and not performing Sandhya Upasana, Puja with Shanti
36
Mantras which go to the benefit of creatures of the world. The explanations
or elucidations are given only to obliterate misgivings, if any, about
Brahmins. There is no gainsaying that due to the grace of Param Brahma
sitting in Neelachal as Sri Jagannath the Nirakar ‘OM’ got into shape to be
worshipped as Sakar Brahma.

Trauma of Religious Unison :.

Be that as it may, the trauma of religious unison – Sakar or Nirakar does not
end here.The fanatics would not lend ears or yield to others’ view
howsoever perversive their own perception may be. To cite an example, the
author of a Bhagabat Geeta spread all over the world held the view that Sri
Krishna cannot be Nirakar (formless) ignoring or not knowing that Lord
Krishna Param Brahma is incarnated as such. The said author, it seems, lost
the sight of the forest (vastness of Godhood) at the sight of a tree (self-
interest). His ‘self interest’,if not wealth, might be the feeling of superiority
over others as he projected other writers as mundane (stated earlier) or for
vivisection of Hinduism in line with some having gone to Court (stated
before). The forest that the author lost sight of is the preaching of Sri Krishna
in Bhagabat Geeta in Ch.13 Vr.27

“Sama Sarbeshu Bhuteshu Tisthantam Parameswaram” or “ Iswarah Sarba

Bhutanam Hrudeshwarjuna Tisthati” or Aham Baiswanara bhutwa Praninam
Dehamashritah – all veering round one point that God resides in human body.

If Sri Krishna is not Nirakar ‘OM’ as asserted by the said author, it would be
prudent on his part to indicate how he would insert Sri Krishna in the body of
a human being in His Sakar form or he has to openly declare that Sri Krishna is
not the incarnation of Ishwara Parambrahma. Unless and until the Author of
the said Bhagabat Geeta discharges the onus on him, he cannot extricate
himself from the slur of arrogance and absurdity.

Water of the Ganges:

It is a common belief and experience with many that Ganga Jaal (water of
the Ganges) maintains its sanctity having come out from the nails of Vishnu,

37
retained on the head of Maheswar before falling on the Earth on the prayer
of King Bhagirath of Ikhwaku dynasty to liberate his 60,000 uncles turned into
ashes in Kapil Muni Ashram. That is to say, by taking bath in Ganges people
believe they would attain salvation. By grace of God, Ganga Jal is never
spoiled irrespective of time and space, It neither emanates any foul smell nor
allows germs and insects to mix with it. This is one of the wonders of the
world.

The Paduka of Sri Lokanath in Srikhetra,Puri is never contaminated with

germs or generates foul smell.

The Mahaprasad of Sri Mandira has the longevity of many days without bad
smell or germination or considered as stale like food in general. Mixed with
water known as Pakhal it meets the hunger and thirst of the poor, especially
poor widows having no austenable means of sustenance . An absolutely
inconceivable fact is that the remnants of Mahaprsad are dried and the dried
rice grains are packed in small packets and preserved for indefinite period by
devotees for use as substitute to Mahaprasad known as ‘Kaibalya’ for which
Sri Jagannath has been described as “ Mahanubhabah Kaibalyadayako
Lokanayakah”(Gopal Sahashra Namah- 118). If few elements could be said as
boardering the wonders, this item far from dispute constitutes one of the
wonders of the World. The mahaprasad is elaborated herein after

Ratna Sinhasana

The seats meant for Deities in any temple are known as Sinhasan. But
unique is the arrangement in relation to the Sinhasan for the Trinity. It is
known as Ratna Sinhasan because underneath are as many as one lakh of
Salagrams, a rare product of River Ganduki originated from the Himalayas
and flowing in Nepal. It needs to be made clear that the Salagram Shila is the
personation of Lord Vishnu valued more than photographs or idols and
occupies the pivotal position in Pujas mostly in Laxmi Narayan and Satya
Narayan Pujas. The State of Odisha owes a tone of gratitude to Nepal for its
contribution of Salagrams to constitute the Ratna Singhasan in Sri Mandira.

Wells of Srimandira

38
 As is commonly known, small rivers, ponds and wells dry up in summer But
the wells in Srimandira, named Ganga Jamuna do not dry up even after plenty
of water is taken out daily for all purposes including cooking of large quantity
of Mahaprasad. Strangely, however, with the diminishing value of Faith in
Mahaprabhu the wells now a days fall short of water but never dry
completely. . This is the unique feature but never without the wish of
Mahaprabhu,

Beddha Kali:

Like people on Earth, the Devas(Gods) from Heaven come to Srimandira and
have Darshan of Mahaprabhu and offer Puja daily at night after Bada Singhar
Besha and dispersal of pilgrims and servitors from temple premisesafter
cleaning and purification. After Darshan and moving around in the temple
premises Devas meet together and hold deliberations in a Mandap(porch)
built in the north side of the temple named as Deva Sabha Mandap. An
intervening agent is the Guhya Kali Bhadra Kali popularly known as Bedha
Kali who makes rounds in the temple premises. Once a boy was seen in her
route who vomited blood and passed away. This was not well taken note of.
Consequently, Bedha Kali was awarded punishment like men in Earth by the
King. As per order Bedha Kali was made to be inside and in front of Her a
stone wall was erected with a thin hole in it through which Puja and Arati are
offered to the Deity even now.

Mayurbhanja Raja:.

According to folk-tale, once Sri Jagannath over-pleased with the salutations

of the Royal Bhanja family of Baripada (Odisha) promised to be present and
accept Arati offered every evening to Him. Simultaneously Mahaprabhu asked
the Head of the family, the Maharaja of Mayurbhanja, to take Arati with Him
as the King on Earth represents the God respected as Chalanti Vishnu. This
system is believed to be continuing.

Test for Hindus- Buddhists

39
Prior to the advent of Jagatguru Shankaracharya Brahminism was hijacked
by Buddhists. At this moribund stage the Gajapati King summoned a meeting
of representatives from both sides and asked them to display their faculty and
talent to claim superiority of the one over the other. A brass sling (a big ball
type vessel) was placed as the medium of test. The Buddhists put a snake
inside the sling and asked the opponents to say what was inside. The
Brahmins with tantric fusion fired the snake making into ashes and then
replied there was ash inside. Proved to be so, the King declared Brahminism is
superior to Buddhism where after Buddhists made a U-turn in acquiescence

Ocean of kindness:

That Mahaprabhu Sri Jagannath is the ocean of kindness “Krupa Parabara

Sajala Jalada Sreni Ruchiro”(adorned by Adi Shankaracharya) is evident from
the treatments meted out to those who stood as His turbulent foes starting
from Hiranakshya ending with Kansa intervening Hiranya Kashipu, Ravan,
Kumbha Karna, Tarakasur,Sishupal and others.. The Kauravas were also axed
by implication. All of them without exception were exempted from re-birth
and given place in Heaven for which sages, hermits are striving from decades
with utmost penance and austerity. Never could any body see anger with
Mahaprabhu Who maintains equilibrium in pain and pleasure “ Utha Ma
Utha Ma Kahanti Sri Ram Sukhe Dhuhkhe Sada Sthira Je”(Bhakta Kabi
Madhusudan) So saying, mentally composed Sri Ram was lifting Mother
Kaushalya from ground having fallen in agony after hearing that Sri Ram was
ordered to go to forest for fourteen years instead of coronation as Yuv Raj.
This is the finest quality of kindness exhibited by Sri Ram saving all from
embarrassment. In the event Sri Ram in honour of grief of mother withdrew
from departure, there was every likelihood of Bharata on his return from
Uncle’s house making the boons nugatory. This would turn King Dasarath a
volte face and keeping Kaikeyi intriguing at the cost of peace and tranquility
in the Royal Palace.

Not very long ago, a commonly accepted Bhakta came to Puri with his family.
His name was Bandhu Mohanty, resident of Jajpur (Odisha). He covered the
long distance by walking . As otherwise, he was living in abject poverty.The

40
wife was given to understand that there was a friend of Bandhu Mohanty
who would provide food to them on reaching Puri. Nothing of the sort came in
sight. Disaapointed, both spent sleepless night due to hunger near the
starch-water drain outside the boundary of Srimandira. But this could not
remain a secret to Mahaprabhu. At the fag end of night Mahaprabhu came to
them with delicious food (Mahaprasad) in a golden plate , then disappeared.
This is the kindness to living persons of Mahaprabhu dedicated to Him.

Black Stone

There is a peculiar black stone - one and a half feet in breadth and three
feet in length - existing before putting the first step on Baisi Pahach. It is
believed, if anybody returning from darshan of Mahaprabhu puts his step on
this stone will be liable to punishment by Yama Raj. So people who know
about its evil effect do not go towards it

.Floor of Temple:

The floor of Srimandira is made of Baulamala Pathar (a kind of stone with

smooth surface). Exception to it is one rough stone known as Mankada
Pathar which was carved out and kept in Baishi Pahacha in isolation to draw
attention of pilgrims as well as
visitors.

Jagannath Dham :

Hindus recognise four Dhams (pilgrimages) as important among others in

India. They are – Jagannath Dham in East, Dwarika Dham in West, Badrinath
Dham in North and Rameshwar Dham in South, each with its individual
venerability. But the glory of the topic vests in Sri Jagannath in that the
benefits of other Dhams visited will not accrue to the pilgrim if he/she
neglects or forgets to visit Srikhetra and have Darshan of Mahaprabhu. This is
why the pilgrims complete their pilgrimage with Puri in the hope of attaining
Mokshya (Salvation).

Gates of Srimandira

41
 Temples here and there do have entrances – big or small but consdering the
importance of Srikhetra and Srimandira from all counts, it is felt necessary to
describe the entrances of Srimandira as follows. Srimandira has four
entrances one each in North, South, East and West. The East entrance is
named Singha Dwara(Lion’s Gate), The Western entrance is known as
Byaghra Dwara (Tiger’s Gate), the Northern entrance is named Hasti Dwara
(Elephant’s Gate) while the Southern entrance is known as Aswa Dwara
(Horse’ Gate)

.Meghanad Prachir :

Srikhetra being situated in close proximity of Sea (spiritually known as

‘Mahodadhi’), uproarious sea waves generate heavy sounds disturbing sound
sleep of the deities in Srimandira. Therefore, in order to prevent entry of
sound into Srimandira, as the preliminary step, the big boundary wall known
as Meghanad Pacheri is built surrounding Srimandira . Then to ensure that
the sea wave noise does not reach the ears of Mahaprabhu Kanapata
Hanuman is present in the Meghanada Pacheri Western Gate Wall to absorb
the noise as the second precaution. The third precaution is the meticulous
care with which God Baruna, the King of Ocean and father-in-law of
Mahaprabhu by virtue of his being the father of Goddess Mahalxmi ensures
that the sound should not reach the ears of Sri Jagannath at any cost.
Incidentally it may be stated here that the length of the Pacheri is 665 feet,
breadth is 664 feet and height 20 feet.For information sake it is also casually
stated that the height of Viman temple of Srimandira is 210 feet. The height
of Ratna Sinhasan is 5 feet.There exists a pandal around Viman temple called
Kurma Bedha. The entire surrounding of Srimandira is divided into 286 plots
accommodating kitchen, sara house etc.

Shifting of Hanuman

If Mahaprabhu was well protected against the sound of Mahodadhi,

Goddess Laxmi was left with no precaution against her sleeplessness due to
high sounded snoring of Hanuman who was guarding Srimandira. Without

42
waiting for any one to come to Her help She asked Hanuman to move two
and a half feet from Srimandira. Hanuman’s this movement reached at Siruli,
thirty two kilometers away from Srikhetra. Thence forward Hanuman with the
name of Siruli Mahavir continued staying there and performing his duty. Siruli
turned into a pilgrimage where people throng and worship Hanuman and
receive his blessings in fulfilment of their desires.

Maa Bhubaneswari :

A belief persists among people afraid of Tantrik that the Goddess whom
the Tantrik uses as appliance for his nefarious activities becomes subservient
to him. The Goddess would be at his beck and call and carry out his orders.
During the tenure of Gajapati King Chodaganga Dev one Tantrik, by name
Basudev Rath, subjugated one Goddess through his occult exercise to such an
extent that the Goddess was bound to carry a large sized heavy stone on Her
head, place it on ground on which the Tantrik would sit and perform Puja and
replace the stone at its original place after the Puja. This became a routine.
But tolerance has its limit. Too much of any thing is suicidal. Demon Raja Bali
is the example. One day the Goddess felt exhausted. She took Her turn and
put the stone on the head of the Tantrik who met his end and probably
proceeded to Hell as is common with the Tantrks except those who use their
tantric exercise for the welfare of mankind. The Goddess, made out of the
same stone is known as Bhubaneswari, installed and worshipped in
Srimandira

Patita Pabana Bana.

The Patita Pabana Bana (flag) hoisted in Neelachakra in Srimandira, apart

from purifying sinners as stated before has been experimented to be an
indicator of good or bad omen. It depends upon its position or motion. If it is
swaddled, man will not be successful in his venture. Its slow movement
indicates delay. If it waves straight forward ,man will succeed without
obstructions. If it waves very fast upwards. then the work will be
accomplished without the slightest delay. This also depends upon the man’s
faith and eagerness to ascertain the fate of his venture through the flag

43
.Maa Bimala :

Maa Bimala is believed to be the Shakti Pitha out of the feet of Sati fallen in
Srimandira.. The legendary story is that due to humiliation of Lord Shiva
caused by Dakshya Prajapati, father of Sati by not inviting him to the Yagna,
Sati, wife of Lord Shiva immolated Herself in the sacrificial fire. This enraged
Shiva to such an extent that He holding the corpse of Sati in His arms
wandered aimlessly throughout the World. Lord Vishnu intervening, pacified
His anger and cut the dead body into pieces by Sudarshan Chakra. The places
where such pieces fell on Earth sprung up as Shakti Pithas. One of such Pitha
is Srikhetra. From the feet of Sati appeared Goddess Bimala and thus is the
Adhisthatri Devi in Srimandira having assumed position of highest order to
the extent that the Bhog after oblation before Sri Jagannath is offered to Devi
Bimala to be reconised as Mahaprasad with its all attributes as stated
before. Being in the premises of Vishnu Temple known as Srimandira Devi
Bimala enjoys the exclusive right to be worshipped as Goddess Durga during
Saratkalina (autumn) sixteen days’ Devi Puja.

Evaluation of Ratna Bhandara:

If competition is prevalent in material world, people moving in spiritual world

are also not free from such competition. Cut-throat competitions are seen in
religious institutions , one claiming supremacy over anather leaving the God
for whom the institutions were created in oblivion.. The broad based Dharma
is stifled into compartments and , sorry to say, it is rampant in Hinduism.
Personal ego rules the roost, Here is a case in point. After taking over
administration of Srimandira in 1955, the Govt. of Odisha invited Jewellers
from Tirupati (Andhra) to weigh and assess the value of jewelleries in Ratna
Bhandara of Sri Jagannath. Flourished with the idea of bigness of Tirupati, the
abode of Lord Venketeswar, the Jewellers started belittling the value of
wealth of Sri Jagannath. Mahaprabhu would bear with scolding but not
pride as dealt with herein before. This is repeated here. After some items the
Jewellers turned attention to diamonds studded in two ear rings. Their
spectacles cracked at the very sight of the diamond. Normally the size of
diamond of same quality remains the same. In the instant case the quality of

44
diamond was different from each other. But curiously the two ear rings
appeared identical in size, shape, power and weight.. It caused a brain
cracking for the Jewellers especially when the value of one doubled over the
other That is, if one was valued at Rs. One lakh . the cost of the other came to
two lakhs. The Jewellers then came down from heaven to earth prostrating
before Mahaprabhu for their competitive attitude. After all, Who is in Tirupati
is also in Puri with magnified manifestations.. They concluded that the
weight of the wealth of Srimandira is a fantasy. The value of Astaratna (eight
gems like diamond,gold, costly stones, pearls etc),would be so much as to buy
a country of the World. Even the Kohinoor Diamond would take the back
bench in face of the quality of gems in Srimandira, the Tirupati Jewellers
exclaimed.

The ancientmost:

Unless Arjun exhibited his timidity and subsequent inquisitiveness there

would have been no Bhagbata Geeta. On the same analogy, if Yudhisthir did
not express his eagerness to know as to who is ancient in the Universe, this
topic would not have found place here. It is like this. The Karna minus eldest
Pandav Yudhisthira soon after the Rajasuya Yagna requested the invitee-
participants comprising Devas, Kings, Saints and Rishis to let him know as to
who was the ancient God so that he would have his Darshan and feel
privileged. The consensual opinion aimed at Rishi Lomasha because one hair
drops from his body during Pralaya(Destructioin of Universe) and he would be
able to give the correct answer. Yudhisthir approached Rishi Lomasha.
Regretting his inability Lomasha Rirshi directed him to meet Kaka Bhushanda
(crow) who sits on the Kalpabata (banyan tree) near Kailas Mansarobar in
Himalaya. On approach by Yudhisthir Kaka Bhushanda said he played as a
baby crow with Sri Ram time to time He came to Earth but he (Kaka) was not
sure about who was ancient. So saying, he advised Yudhisthir to visit
Purushottam Khetra and meet a tortoise in Indradyumna Pond. Yudhisthir
proceeded accordingly. He saw the tortoise but shrouded by mystery because
the tortoise was adorned with Sankh(conch) Chakra(wheel) Gada(mace) and
Padma(Lotus), the concomitants of Lord Vishnu. Encouraged by the scene,
Yudhisthir fervently requested if he could tell who was ancient. The tortoise
45
gave an indication that Yudhisthir had come to the right place. This served as
a ray of hope for him. Then the tortoise diverted Yudhisthir to Markandeswar
Temple where Rishi Markendeya was living. As regards his attributes the
tortoise revealed that Rishi Markandeya drifted in Pralaya water and entered
into the mouth of Balamukunda (Lord Vishnu in shortest form) wading in
Pralaya water on a banyan leaf. This is how the Bhakta prays- “ Batasya
Patrasya Pute Shayanam Balamukundam Manasa Smarami”.Yudhisthir
approached Rishi Markandeya who could not say who was ancient most but
directed Yudhisthir to Kalpa Brukshya (tree). Yudhisthir went there and put his
question. The last word came from Kalpa Brukshya that the Ratna Bedi
existing in Neelagiri Hill in Purushottam Khetra is very ancient as it survives
the Pralayas and the God installed on it is the ancient most. Yudhisthir
overwhelmed with joy came to Ratna Singhasan and, thus fulfilled his desire
of being enlightened with the basic point that crept in his mind and had
Darshan of Mahaprabhu.

The sanguine Yudhisthir would not leave Srikhetra without knowing a bit
about the Kalpabrukhya which only could quench his thirst of knowledge. As
related, the tree Kalpabata standing to the right of the Temple has survived
the Maha Pralayas (total destruction of Universe) With the increase of volume
of Pralaya water, the body of the tree would swell in equal proportion to
withstand its devastating vigour. Result of Japa (meditation) under Kalpabata
becomes ten fold .So real devotees flock here . It therefore bestows shadow
throughtout the day. Yudhisthir was taken aback.

No date for Sri Jagannath :

As stated earlier, Sri Jagannath is Anadi and Ananta. It is also said that
Mahaprabhu wades in Pralaya whose presence is not known to any one. As
such nobody can ascertain the date for appearance of Mahaprabhu in the
Universe. Putting it conversely, Mahaprabhu has created the Universe.The
birth date for Hindusim is therefore in obsecurity with the distinction as
Sanatan Dharma as compared to other religions having specific date of origin
on the basis of birth of their founders. So thinking about geneology or
anthropology regarding Sri Jagannath would land the thinker in a fool’s

46
paradise to hover in the twilight zone of confusion. Faith needs no logic “
Biswase Milai Hari tarke Bahudur”. The omnipresent, omniscient Prabhu
Jagannath is Swayambhu. This conviction will level the grounds set by
scientists, historians, poets and any other in this regard. Who can fathom the
unfathomable? It is not unintrusive to assimilate the fact that after Maha
Pralaya reconstruction starts with Satya Yug which is followed by Treta,
Dwapar, Kali in consecutive succession on rotation.This results in, apart from
Sri Ram, repeated birth of Krishna and Arjun. It was not known to Arjun. Sri
Krishna therefore explained to him in following words :

“ Bahuni Mae Byatitani Janmani Taba Charjuna Tanyaham Beda Sarbani

Na Twam Bettha Parantapa” (Geeta Ch. 4, Vr.5).

Notwithstanding the theme of ‘Eka Brahma, Dwitiya Nasti’ Incarnational

philosophy drifts into intermittent researches on contemporaneous thesis,
one of which was made by the Central Research Institute in June, 1972 in
respect of Srimandira, Puri and their findings, inter alia, disclose that Sri
Jagannath temple existed in Dwapar Yuga. Maharaja Indradyumna at that
time installed idol of Sri Krishna in a small temple in western part of the
present Indradyumna Pushkarini (pond) .’The temple was in a small piece of
island, its both sides being covered by sea. Lomasharishi was meditating
(doing Tapasya) on a similar landscape in present Bada Shankha. The eldest
Pandav Yudhisthir worshipped Lomasharishi here. There was also a small
temple existing in the present Srimandira site then in sea where also
Yudhisthir performed Puja swimming from Bada Shankha on the advice of
Lomasharishi. Some different opinion is also available according to which Raja
Indradyumna with the help of Brahma invited from Heaven. could not trace
the Bigraha. It was found from the centre of Indradyumna Pushkarini where
is the present idol of Nilakantheswar. Raja Lalita Madhav installed the
Bigraha of Madhab in the temple built by Indradyumna in Nilagiri with
permission of grandfather of Lalit Madhav. There after Indradyumna had
been to Brahma Lok from where he returned with Brahma Dev to Srikhetra
when Biswabasu, Bidyapati and Queen Gundicha already left the Earth. Raja
Lalit Madhab disowning the right of Indradyumna over the temple put him to
tremendous trouble and humiliation demanding proof in support of his claim.
47
Ultimately Brahma in guise of a Sadhu provided proof through the masons
turned Kurum (tortoise) in Indradyumna Pushkarini and Bhusand Kaka in
Kalpataru (Banyan tree) testifying to the claim of Raja Indradyumna. From
Gundicha temple built by Queen Gundicha guarded by Narada, Prabhu
Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra were brought and installed in the
Nilagiri temple shifting God Madhav elsewhere. Raja Lalit Madhab was
renamed by Brahma as Gala Madhab and denied entry to the temple as
punishment for his pride, harassment and.disregard for Raja Indradyumna
who not only surrendered his right over the temple but also sought and got
the boon of extinction of his Dynasty thus insulating against any future claim
on Srimandira. .

Walking on Ratna Bedi:

If it is not taken amiss and if Sri Jagannath is placed before self, a

horrendous tale with telling effect on Mahaprabhu in relation to pilgrims
needs mentioning here. As already stated, the Ratna Bedi is based on one
lakh Salagrams It is also not to be forgotten that Salagrams occupy self-same
position as Narayan occupies as idol. Jurisprudence as such demands that if
the idol is worshipped with folded hands and astanga pranam, the same
respect is to be given to Salagram, if not more. But in any case or from any
angle of vision, Salagrams cannot be slighted as foot-bearer of any one.
Notably, the latter is the practice in vogue in Srimandir in that pilgrims walk
over the Salagrams .Those who are circuiting Ratna Bedi and thus putting
their feet on Salagram may be either arrogant owing to possession of wealth
or ignorant of the sanctity of Salagrams occupying the position over idols.
This is an insult to Sri Jagannath. If income aspect is attached to it, a sane
man with Swabhiman(self-respect) would not agree to sale of prestige and
honour to augment his income. What about Mahaprabhu ? Has
Mahaprabhu become so poor? Even then has His opinion been taken in the
manner Gajapati Maharaja was getting in dream to allow people to trample
Salagram, His other form ? The walking over Salagrams Juxtaposed with
Patita Pabana Bana (flag hoisted on the top of the temple), presents a
diametrically opposite theory of Mahaprabhu. While it is believed that
through Patita Paban Bana Mahaprabhu invites sinners for redemption of sin,
48
with the walking over Salagrams the pilgrims are infused with sin. Is it the
intention of Mahaprabhu? Is it not akin to Moghul Emperor Mehmad Tuglok
distributing alms through one door and killing innocents in another? One may
refer to Ram Das(cobbler) in this context. Ram Das in fact used Salagram as
a scaffolding to facilitate shoe making. The poor Ram Das maintained his
family on shoe making. He placed his foot on Salagram for this. But there is
distinction between poor illiterate Ram Das for family maintenance and the
educated well-to-do pilgrims for extra advantage over other general pilgrims.
Lord Vishnu preferred to be under foot of Ram Das than Pundit Brahmin’s
head for the reason that Brahmin desired to get money through the
Salagram. Finally Brahmin Pundit returned the Salagram to Ram Das under
threat from Lord Vishnu. Ram Das was then known as an ardent Bhakta of
Lord Vishnu and started Bhajan “ Jaya Hey Achyuta Tuma Padagate Niti
Rama Das Bhane”. Since no parity can logically be drawn between Ram Das
and the unduly privileged pilgrims, the latter are on the cross-road of
choosing between mixing with general pilgrims from Garuda Stambha,
Chandan Argali to have blessings of Mahaprabhu or climbing on Ratna Bedi
and committing unpardonable sin frustrating their visit to Srikhetra like
searching for the black cat in the dark room which is not there. It is wondered
if the conscientious magnanity of pilgrims has appreciated that God is for the
poor, of the poor and by the poor analogous to Indian Constitution of the
people, for the people and by the people.

Smouldering Indignation:

The smouldering indignation of Sri Jagannath not ventilated because of Kali

Yug appears to be more in keeping Him hungry for the avoidable reason that
Bhaktas are in long queue to have His Darshan. So Mahaprabhu should wait
until waiting line is exhausted.Then and then only Bhog (food) would be
served to Mahaprabhu. This is just like putting the cart before the horse.It
defies all ethics, all logic. It is not the Solicited but the Solicitor who has to
wait and not vice versa.It is a sad irony of conscience that the pilgrims do not
have an inkling of concern to keep Mahaprabhu hungry. They seem to forget
that because of Prabhu Jagannath they are in possession of wealth on the
strength of which they could visit Srikhetra but make Mahaprabhu suffer
49
only for them. It is said and accepted that Sri Jagannath is conceived as a
human being. The pilgrims should question to themselves as to what
blessings they expect from Mahaprabhu in empty stomach. Such are the
avoidable man-made calamities over which pilgrims with conscience and
prudence mingled with faith in God are to seriously ponder before
Mahaprabhu assumes Kalki Avtar.

Basudheiba Kutumbakam :

As the words connote, the people of the Earth are taken as one family. It is
just not true in the annals of physical living but it is possible from spiritual
point of view in line with “Abibhaktam Bibhakteshu Tajgyanam Bidhi
Satwikam”- Geeta Ch.18 Vr.20 meaning man can feel undivided in a family
separated from him, through love, affection and compassion. This was the
contemplation of ancient Rishis, Saints of Bharatvarsha (India) .They have
composed Shanti Mantras like “ Sarbe Bhabantu Sukhinah Sarbe Shantu
Niramaya .Sarbe Bhadrani Pashyantu Ma Kaschit Dukha Bhaga Bhabet”. This
philosophy travels far beyond self, village, district. state and coutry touching
the world at large. By virtue of Mahaprabhu making home in Srikhetra, Puri,
Utkal gave birth to exponent Sanths (Sadhus) prominently the Pancha Sakha
(names stated earlier).One of them, Santha Achyutananda dwelt upon
spiritual constituents of human body. Bhakta Ram Das(named earlier)
became the disciple of Achyutananda like Arjun to Sri Krishna.From the
teachings it reveals that the most unintelligible Nectar exists in human body.
It is identified and understood through Gyana Chakra (self knowledgeous
element),Sharira Tatwa (knowledge about body) and Kundalini Shakti
(rousing concurrent element). The scriptures of Pancha Sakha wax eloquent
on various aspects of philosophy. Briefly stated, Jivatma and Paramatma
occupy human body like two birds. Jivatma regulates activities of body
elements. Paramatma as silent spectator sits on judgment of the Karma
produced by Jivatma.At the end of life man goes to Hell or Heaven according
as his karma deserves determined by Paramatma. Absence of Guru like
Achyutananda and emergence of fake guru has created chaos in society, the
remedy for which is suggested as “Krisham Bande Jagat Guru” meaning direct
approach to God(also refer to introductory).
50
Dweita – Adweita :

Jiva and Param being in human body with functions stated above are
misconceived by some as Dweita (two in separation) while exponents like Adi
Shankaracharya professed that they are Adweita (in Unison) as Brahma
explained to Rishi Jagyanbulka to be conveyed to Rishi Janak. Sankarachrya
also in course of deliberations with Dweitabadi Mandan Misra stuck to
Adweitabad with cogent reasonings. Maharshi Byasadev and Jaimini who
were invoked by Mandan Misra also joined issue with Shankaracharya. This
made Mandan Misra surrender to Shankar and become his disciple.
Protagonists of squalid squabble product of self-ego would hardly digest it.
They would not stand to reasoning. Ravan did not yield to advices of his
grand father and entreatments of Sri Ram. The Dweitabadi author of
Bhagabat Geeta discredited Lord Krishna as Nirakar without spelling out how
Sri Krishna would be in human being in His body Form. One U.P. Sadhu
proclaiming as Jagatguru flagrantly violated the norms of Vaishnavatwa as
enshrined by Sri Chaitanya in vilifying Shankaracharya as ‘Scrue Dhila’ in a
huge gathering. It is queer to note that such self-styled God men like him do
not care for the impact of their unsavoury behaviour on their disciples or
people in general.The UP. Sadhu was understood to have collected money
from gullible disciples on swinging the swing he would be sitting on. The
Bhagbat Geeta author does not appear to have realized that his perversive
theory regarding Sri Krishna would kill the conscience of millions at home and
abroad by eliminating Lord Krishna from the venerability of ‘OM’
Parambrahma. A murderer undergoes punishment under Criminal Act A
mass conscience killer comes under the ordeals of Bhagabat Geeta Ch.14
Vr.18 as under :

“ Urdhwam Gachhanti Satwastha Madhye Tisthanti Rajasah Jaghanya Guna

Butistha Adho Gachhanti Tamasah”

Men of ordinary prudence do not bother about the theme of Dweita Adweita
that leads to divisive egoistic forces acting underground to place themselves
over others - be it at the cost of religion or humanity. Dominance of Dweita
theory in Society provoked Shankaracharya to rise to the occasion as stated

51
herein above. Therefore, leaving aside controversies that pollute the mind,
develops animosity, destruct unity in religion which is squeezed in the world
context and injects impurity into heart and mind, the common man may
concentrate on his traditional daily routine with an unbiased mind within the
frame work of -

“Brahmanyadhaya Karmani Sangam Tyaktwa Karoti Jah Lipyate Na Sa

Papena Padma Patra Mimbabhasa”.(Geeta Ch.5, Vr.10).

Vicissitudes:

Deeper the faith harder the test.This is said in the context of God realization
Sri Ram slept on grass mat and spent night in the house of Guhaka without
food. Meera Bayee took poison as sent by Rana,her husband.

. “ Bishaki Piyala Ranajine Bheja Pibata Meera Hashi Re”. Paga Ghunguru
Bandha Meera Nachi Rhakta Sudama was made to fast in absence of a grain
of corn.Sri Radha had to jump into Kalindi Sarobar. Only after this Sri Krishna
filled up the gap in Geeta Govinda

-- “ Dehi Pada Pallabamudaram” preceded by “ Smara Garala Khandanam

Mama Shirasi Mandanam” Dehi Pada..….).

In Utkal (Odisha) Sri Jagannath became family God, apart from Srimandira,
for any thing and every thing auspicious, be it thread ceremony, marriage,
gruha prabesh or installing deities in a new temple in village. The people also
felt pride for being close to Him. They were therefore put to test. Mahaprabhu
created deplorable situations Himself being victim thereof. Mahaprabhu had
to pass through vicissitudes of life. Sri Krisha was to be carried in a basket just
after birth in the rainy dark night drowning in river Jamuna..Devaki was to see
her six children done to death before her eyes. This was to test steadfastness
of faith in God. Sri Jagannath, replica of Sri Krishna, put Odias to severe tests
shrouded by vicissitudes like Moghul invasion, Maratha plunder, shifting of
Mahaprabhu to Chilka, going under graund in Sonepur, Kalapahad
atrocities, the life risk adventure of Bishara Mohanty saving the Brahma
from destruction and keeping in his house in Kujanga,so on and so forth,

52
were all parts of the game. Unless self-willed, how could mother Jashoda tie
Sri Krishna Similarly, without His wish how could the Supreme Lord of the
Universe, could be subdued and subjugated to tearful heart rending
depredations time to time? Any way, the Odias withstood the untold miseries
stretching upto sacrifice of life, hats off to Odias.The ultimate was fixed with
Shankaracharya (Dattatreya of Treta Yug and Byasa Muni of Dwapar Yug )
who recovered the Deities from Sonepur under ground ( hidden place) and
restored in Srimandira. Brahmanism was upheld against Budhism Notable
writer Surendra Mohanty was to write all episodes with vivid descriptions in
his Book ‘Neela Shaila’ to remind future generations to keep in memory their
glorious past and unstinted Bhakti for Sri Jagannath with Jaban Bhakta Kabi
Salabeg to compose the Bhajan –

“ Kene Gheni Jauchha Jagannathanku Ambhe Darshana Karibu Kahaku “.

Kashi Viswanath :

As stated earlier, Devas (Gods) from heaven come down to Sri Khetra for
Darshan of Mahaprabhu. Similar is the position in relation to Lord Shiva -

“ Kailas Shikhare Ramye Shankarasya Shibalaye Devatah Tatra Modante…

Tanme Manah Shiva Samkalpamastu”

.Lord Shiva was venerated by Sri Ram as ” Ramasya Iswara Rameswara” on

the eve of crossing Ocean to reach Sri Lanka to kill Ravan and get Seeta. Lord
Shiva’s turn came to rush to Gokul the moment He came to know that Lord
Vishnu has taken birth and then in custody of Nanda Raja and Jashoda as
mother. As a hermit Shiva vehemently tried to have Darshan of Vishnu as the
incarnated infant Sri Krishna. In spite of reciprocity of recognition and
respect, deviation from ideal human behaviour could not go unpunished..
Here is a case in point. Sri Viswanath (Lord Shiva) once came to Srikhetra
from Kashi Dham for Darshan of Sri Jagannath in the guise of a Brahmin.
Hurdles came in His way as is usual in pilgrimage but disappeared.. His
human disposition dragged Him to feel pride for overcoming the obstacles. So
feeling, Sri Viswanath was about to climb the first step of Baisi Pahach from
Lion’ Gate of Srimandira with the hope to have Darshan of Sri Jagannath. At

53
this juncture Mahaprabhu prohibited Sri Viswanath from putting step on
Baisi Pahacha and directed Him to stay at the foot of Baisi Pahacha in Agni
Kona (South Eastern corner). Mahaprabhu then promised to give Darshan to
Sri Viswanath twice a year during Ratha Jatra (Car festival) while going out in
Gundicha and entering into the Temple in Bahuda. What a sad irony? Sri
Viswanath was then at the receiving end and in appreciation of the
demonstation by Sri Jagannath of rational application of justice Sri
Viswanath continued to stay there in Srimandira. Sri Viswanath might have
felt obliged, this being an opportunity for Him to be nearer to Lord Vishnu.
The intensive desire of Lord Shiva to be closer to lord Vishnu is evident from
the incident that in the guise of Gopi Lord Shiva attempted to draw near but
was identified. However. with the grace of Sri Krishna ( Lord Vishnu) Mahadev
stayed in Brundaban known as Gopeswar. In Srimandira, devotees worship
Him at first sight and by this, few may be keeping away from pride. From this
point only starts purification of body and mind as if Sri Viswanath inspires
pilgrims to have Darshan of Mahaprabhu duly purified.. For purification
pilgrims need not have to do dhyana, pranayam, byayam etc. as these are
performed on climbing Baisi Pahach and in parikrama of the temple before
going for Darshan.

Sri Mahaprasad:

As slightly touched earlier Mahaprasad needs elaboration in the right

perspect to alleviate the doubts of scientists as regards its preparation and
preservation etc. It appears mysterious from the stage of cooking upto
consumption. The traditional chulla in the kitchen has six openings based on
six Agni Yantras. After the food is cooked Naivedya is offered in conjunction
with six Chakras. These are Brahma Chakra,Shri-Chakra, Bhairabi Chakra,
Pitha Chakra, Neela Chakra and Deva Chakra. Since the Singhasan of Sri
Jagannath is built on one lakh Salagrams it is known as Ratna Bedi. As per
Tantra Shastra it is called Mani Pitha or Brahma Chakra. On the Ratna Bedi
Sri Chakra or Sri Yantra is placed. Above all, Ratna Bedi is based on Bhairabi
Chakra and above that Pinda of Sri Jiu is Pitha Chakra. Sri Jagannath and Sri

54
Balabhadra are the complexions of Neela Chakra and Deva Chakra
respectively.By performance of Tantrik Sadanga Vidhi the normal
characteristic of Anna(cooked rice) is destroyed and Brahma characteristic is
implanted. It is then offered to Mahaprabhu on golden plate inside the Naba
Chakra(Sri-Chakra). During offering of Mahaprasad all the Anna (rice) Dal and
Curry Kuduas (earthern pots) are kept inside the Sri Chakra drawn with
Pancha Muruja (rice powder of five colours) in the Garva Gruha After offering
of Bhog to Mahaprabhu it is offered to Maha Bhairabi Maa Bimala to earn
the status of Mahaprasad as already stated. The very first beneficiaries to
whom Mahaprasad is served are the Asta(eight)
Vaishnavas,namely,Viswakesan,Suka,Prahlad,Hanuman,
Narada,Garuda,Indradyumna and Devala. Materially speaking, the steam
boiling process of Mahaprasad is otherwise unique in the world

Madan Mohan:.

Madanmohan is the representative of Mahaprabhu being the commingled

personality of Chaturdha Murti namely, Sri Jagannath, Nrushimha, Rama and
Krishna. He bears the face of Nrusimha, eyes of Sri Jagannath, hands and
feet of Sri Krishna and the Tilak of Sri Ram. Therefore, Madanmohan proceeds
to Indradyumna Pond for the 21 days Chapa (playing in boat on water) from
Akhya Trutiya in the month of Baisakh(April-May) with Bhudevi, Sridevi and
Pancha Pandavas.

Sin committed in Srikhetra:

Sin committed any where is redeemed in Srikhetra but sin committed in

Srikhetra is doubled in its vigour as per Shastra reproduced below:

“ Anya Khetre Krutam Papa Srikhetre Binashyati Ae Khetre Krutam Papa

Dwigunat Prabodhanti”.

It presupposes that Sri Jagannath put residents of Puri in high esteem and
expected of them superb conduct,exemplary behavior and faultless
performance on pain of double punishment on deviations therefrom, which
ordeal does not visit people in general. This is just like the proverb ‘ higher

55
the up, harder the fall’ as prevalent in material world . By implication, the
quantum of punishment is higher for a person higher in status or intelligence
than an inferior even though the gravity of offence or misconduct is one and
the same. Apart from various cases of this nature a glaring example is
available from the treatment meted out by an erstwhile Pakistan President,
namely, Gen. Yahiya Khan who awarded death penalty to the then Prime
Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Life Imprisonment to four other accomplices
explaining away his action to foreign journaists on the above
philosophy,’higher the up,harder the fall’. It is said in the context of the
deplorable situations like grabbing of properties of the Lord, ritual disorders,
temple mismanagement, harassment to pilgrims etc. provoking the wrath of
Sri Jagannath expressed in time to time virulent cyclones and various other
disasters.The errant inhabitants cannot take shelter under immunity from
punishment by Yama Raja granted for Puri and adjoining people. Immunity is
not a licence to commit sin in the manner stated above. The inheritant
residents of Puri have the glamorous image as piousmost with a higher
human status in the eyes of pilgrims.This ought not to be tarnished keeping
in mind the Muslim Yahiya Khan’s conception of ethics matching with the
above quoted Sanskrit verse concerning Puri, the abode of Sri Jagannath and
citadel of ancient culture.

Influence of Shanigraha :

Since Mahaprabhu’s behaviour resembles that of a man ,He comes under the
influence of Planets. Once during Pahandi for Ratha Jatra (car festival)
Mahaprabhu did not move in spite of strenuous efforts by survitors. This was
near Ananda Bazar where statues of two elephants were standing.. It was
ascertained that Shani Graha at that moment entered into the sign of
Mahaprabhu, The north wall of Baisi Pahach collapsed. Mahaprabhu did not
step down Baisshi Pahach to avoid any evil effect of Shani Chalan at that
moment.. After clearance of debris Pahandi resumed. It was only a
Manabiya(human) Leela of Mahaprabhu to be subservient to Shani Graha
who is ever subservient to Him as the Supreme Lord. Shani Graha had also
demonstrated his subordination before Lord Shiv while testifying in negative
to the assertion of Brahma that he had cast his evil eyes on the new building
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built by Vishwakarma for Goddess Parvati fallen in the allurement of
Maharshi Narada. It was only on the sound of Damru played by Shiv on the
request of Shani Graha at his residence that Parvati set fire on the building
reducing to ashes before Shiv arrived on the spot. This is said to dispel the
misconception that Shani Graha could do any harm to the Supreme Lord Shri
Jagannath.

Rohini Kunda :

Generally water contained in small open containers exposed to Sun gets

warm before it dries up. But peculiar is the condition of small quantity of
water existing in Rohini Kunda(bowl) made of stone in Srimandira. It is not
warmed up any time despite rays of scorching Sun.The reason in support of
coolness of water may be attributed to any other container with cold water
placed underneath but not visible. Mythological history as recorded in
Shastras unveils the mystery. It reveals that the original Rohini Kunda existed
at the time of construction of Srimandira when a flying crow fell on it,
became Chaturbhuja and attained Mokshya (salvation). This led to the belief
that whoever takes a dip in it or sips a bit will attain Mukti. For non-sinners it
is welcome. But in Kali Yug infested by sinners it will be a solace for them to
go unpunished. Therefore an artificial Kunda was made of stone and kept
over the original Kunda. Artificial though, it gets respect with faith known as
Kaka Chaturbhuja Kunda or Rohini Kunda. Except for revealing the back
ground, there is no intention to disparage it in any manner. After all, it is faith
and not content that matters.

Garuda Sthambha:

The religious fervour with which Garuda is worshipped is beyond the horizon
of material world. His other name is Bainateya with which Lord Krishna
stands identified “ Bainateyascha Pakhinam “(Geeta Ch10 Vr30). Snakes
disappear even on hearing his name. For this reason before going to bed
people utter ‘Astika, Garudastika’ to be saved from snake bite. He is carrier of
Lord Vishnu in the manner of Brushava (Bull) to Lord Shiva. Like Bull before
Shiva, Garuda stands in front of Vishnu as preconditioned Deva for worship to

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get blessings of Vishnu. Garuda is poison sucker because of his habbit of
killing and eating snakes. Keeping this in view the ancestors of Odiyas rich in
foresight picked up a poison sucker tree known as Garuda Udgara from the
Himalayas in spite of swarm of bees around and carved out the Stambha from
it. Scientist C.V.Raman in his visit to Srimandira (referred to earlier) after
touching Garuda identified it to be so. He also expressed that with the efflux
of time it is converted into a fossil .A big crack also divided it into two
directions – north and south.The tree is placed here. By hugging the tree
poison of body was taken away by it The height of the Stambha is 10 feet.
The Stambha is placed on a 5’* 5’ pandal.This means the folded hand Garuda
idol made out of a piece of black shiny stone is above 9’ from the ground. The
pillar is the stem of the tree. Therefore tree linings appear on it.The power of
Garuda pillar is lost due to touch by pilgrims over years. To prevent human
touch to retain poison sucking power of the pillar the Gajapati Kings made
brick wall around it . Milk was poured in the enclosure by which the pillar was
completely submerged. Pouring of milk was done once in a year, In course of
time this system was also discontinued. .

Aruna Stambha:

The Aruna Stambha (Stone Pillar) standing before Lion’s Gate of Sriimandira is
as old as 700 years It is carved out of a single 16 corned stone beautified with
fine stone art. It was brought from Arka Khetra, Konark during the tenure of
Gajapati King II(1783-1793 A.D.). The height of the base stone is 2.5 meters.
The height of the middle portion is 7.5 meters thus making the total height as
10 meters. Strangely, Aruna Stambha does not spread its shade

Nilachakra :

Among the two wheels, the girth of inner wheel is 3 meters approx. The girth
of outer wheel measures 11 meters approx. The connecting spokes of 8
nos.bears the length of 0.55 meters each. On both sides of the wheel there
are 4 nos. of half circles on each side and a lotus bud like symbol appears on
top.The thickness of Nilachakra is 5 c,m, and it weighs 150 k.g. It is made of
Asta Dhatu (eight metals) Half of the construction is iron, 25 % is copper and

58
the other six metals like gold, silver,brass, zinc, mercury constitute 25%. The
text inscribed on it reads – “Sri Dibyasinha Deva Maharajankara 29 Dina Sri
Nilachakra tiara hoi Bije Kale” Means Nilachakra was made and placed on Sri
Dibyasinha King 33 Anka Makara 29 days According to calculation it was
1215 AD January 26 Shukla Pakhya (waxing moon) Dwitiya Tithi and
Wednesday.The Nilachkra as is seen was not there since 21 years(1694-1715
AD). Giving a lucid detail it is said that Height of Nilachakra is 11’8”,
circumference 7’9”, thickness is 2”, circumference width is 9” The diameter of
the inner hole is 2’2” Total eight spokes each bearing length of 1’10” are
present and numbered chronologically.The peculiarity of the Nilachakra is
that it does not spread its shade like Aruna Stambha. So also is the peculiarity
with Srimandira that does not reflect any shade. The Kalpa Bata, however,
confines its shade to its own foot. It needs special mention that the flag of
Nilachakra flies in the opposite drection of wind which is absolutely an
unusual phenomenon.It is also a belief that any one staring at Nilchakra after
2 p.m. by leaning aganst the wall adjacent to Pataleswar Shiv Temple near
northern Gate of Srimandira gains a special experience conducive to a happy
life.

Height of Srimandira.

The height of Srimandira from Grand Road (Bada Danda) is 214 feet. The
height from Antarbedi is 181 feet because height of Antarbedi from Grand
Road is 33 feet. Height of Jagamohan or main entrance is 100 feet. In
construction of this Temple 50,000 madha gold,2.5 lakh worth other valuable
metals including gems were used. In front of the main temple of Sri
Jagannath, there are three other temples in conjunction with each other –
first the Bhog Mandap, second the Nata Mandap, third the Pokharia after
which comes the Ballava Pindi and finally the Garva Gruha, the last temple.

Maa Sarba Mangala:

Maa Sarba Mangala temple exists under the Kalpabata. According to

Mahabharat in Dwapar Yug Draupadi married to the five sons of King
Pandu. She is worshipped as Sarba Mangala in Kali Yug. In front of Her temple

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are Pancha Shiva Temples representing Pancha Pandavas, Yudhisthir, Bhim.
Arjun. Nakul and Sahadev identified as Lokanath, Jambeswar,
Kapalamochana, Nilakantheswar and Markandeswar respectively.

Dissection

After going through the narrations or descriptions in the foregoing Chapters

one need not cry in the wilderness in search of the basic Truth that Eka
Brahma Dwitiya Nasti (Nirakar pattern of meditation) also travels concurrent
in conjunction with manifestations (Sakara way of worship) without any
confusion in mind. Nirakar is internal while Sakar is external. The external
body(abode of Jeebatma) cannot exist without the internal heart (abode of
Paramatma) Extriction of one from another ends life. This is not unknown to
saints, sadhus and intellectuals.. The fanatics with intriguing interest
conspire dissection of Hinduism which is already suffering from corrosive
tactics. One and the same person is both Nirakar and Sakar as futher
elucidated herein after. Conflict created by third persons classified in the
beginning could be thwarted by conviction, perception and perfection. It
also cannot be denied that the malaise of masquerade has run deeper but
eradication is not impossible. This is suggested for persons well placed and
well circumstanced on whom the mediocre could depend in the direction of
drawing closer to God independent of via-media. One way is traceable to
mass bhajan kirtan or worshipping idols and the other way practising
meditation in nibhruta nilaya (secluded room) at home or in isolation nearby,
may be small village temple. Prayer/bhajan adds flavour to body and mind
while devotion touches the heart, thus both are inseparable and compatible .
Fullness of Prayer depends on dexterity and success of meditation on
renunciation of morbid propensity. “ Kamanara Binashare Dukhara Binash”-
Bhagaban Buddha (meaning grief is destroyed by destruction of desires). This
is preceded by the surmon “ Bairagena cha gruhyate” (Geeta Ch.6 Vr.30). In
the fitness of things, the well-to-do group would visualize the perspective
future of health, peace of mind and sound sleep (leaving sleeping tablets),
should they look at the uncertainty of life longevity fast advancing towards

60
the inescapable death “Jatasya hi Dhrubo.Mrutyuh” (Geeta Ch,2 Vr,27).The so
well nourished body will leave, leaving all – men,money and material may be
acquired by dubious means (not in all cases). If they cultivate this, they may
find solace and happiness conducive to ailment-free living and guide the
mediocre without parting with their property but doing a bit of social service
instead of following the imposters. They may do Bhajan, Kirtatan and
devotion at their own will and not at the dictate of others. They have to
come out of the self-made rendezvous of exclusiveness. This is suggested
more for their happy long life than the service they may render. This service
cannot be down played because it would go a long way in ameliorating the
feeling of leaderlessness in fighting against sacrilege perpetrated by the
unscrupulous so-called religious saviours. Option is left for haves vis-a-vis
have-nots to revel in the levelling ground of death ensuring Mokhshya
(Liberation). `

Grace of Sri Jagannath :

Hoary headed Odias not swelled by ‘Haves’ as in other States and countries in
the World have been graced by Sri Jagannath in the field of arts, culture
etc.with excellence not only to eke out a modest means of livelihood but also
to highlight the name of Odisha in world context The sculpture of Surya
Mandira (Sun Temple) in Konark (Odisha) built by 1200 masons of Odisha in
long twelve years negatives in one breath the overtures of others in respect
of sculpture which the younger generation has aptly reflected..

God does not remain indebted. The turbulent periods of danger to

Srimandira, protection of deities from the ravages of Jabans, intermittent
warfares entailing loss of life made Odiyas dearer to Sri Jagannath and
therefore it appears Mahaprabhu has made Odisha rich even now in the field
of art and culture. The filigree work of Cuttack and Odishi dance are tips in
the ice berg. The present day arts of Raghurajpur, the birth place of world
famous Odissi Nrutya Guru Kelu charan Mahapatra attract foreigners to
undergo training there. It will not be wrong to say that Odishi Dance ,Music,
Devdashi Dance was originated from Srimandira and spread over many parts
of the world. Dance music orchestra are held in the Nata Mandap witnessed

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and enjoyed by Mahaprabhu and other Deva Devis present in Srimandira. The
Gajapati Kings used to maintain its continuity by appointing well versed
teachers who extended it to all parts of Odisha making Odisha culturally
developed as a whole.

. Odisha also became commercially viable, owing to grace of Mahaprabhu,

with the development of cottage industries and craftsmanship. The Sadhabas
(merchant class) got opportunity to sail over sea to Java, Sumatra, Indonesia
etc. with home products and in exchange bring valuable commodities adding
to the wealth of the State.This, in turn, made India wealthier. This is all due to
the covert patronage of Sri Jagannath.

The truncated India in the absence of a common leadership did not have
consolidated fighting force to combat foreign ivasion and on the other hand
was in the grip of internal strifes and warfare. Then it was only
Srikhetra/Khurda which trained wrestlers and fighters(mostly Paiks) who as
patriots stood for the country (Odisha was then stretched to River Ganges in
East and River Godavari in South).

In ancient times there was only lore education imparted in Srikhetra not only
for Srimandira Seba Puja but also for other temples and society at large of
course in a small way to remove total illiteracy. This constituted Vedic
instructions by which culture of Dharma (righteousness) and worship of God
got longevity until modern system of education came into being. Kings,
jamindars and otherwise influential people visiting Srikhetra and having
Darshan of Mahaprabhu were baptized with the religion, education, culture
and patriotism initiated from here. Even the Kings learnt the technique of
administration and discipline to maintain peace and tranquility in their states
or areas under control. This renaissance gave birth to multiples of Gurukul
Ashrams to produce illustrious sons in India to uphold religion and ideal
pattern of life. This attracted leaders of other religions like Guru Nanak, Santh
Kabir, Sri Chaitanya who visited Puri, had Darshan of Prabhu Jagannath and
spread Jagannath Dharma all over the world.

Niceties of Rituals :

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 Even a bird’s eye view will not fail to perceive the strange combination of
monarchy, republic and communism in the ritual niceties of Mahaprabhu.
Monarchy embraces communism when the Gajapati King works as a sweeper
by doing chhera pahara with golden broom in the chariots of the Trinity.That
is to say, the King here is a servitor as specific work is allotted to each servitor
in Chhatisha Nijog independent of the other. Republic comes into play when
decisions are taken in a democratic way, every one in the meeting having
freedom of speech, Gajapati King,the Ruler being in the Chair. Pulling of
strings of the chariots by one and all irrespective of caste, sex and creed is the
conglomeration of the whole world like a family.

Family obligations:

Just as annual rites are performed as per social customs, the departed souls
in the family of Mahaprabhu are remembered and honoured with due
respect. So every year on Deva-Deepavali day Mahaprabhu pays respect to
Indradyumna-Gundicha, Dasarath – Kaushalya, Nanda- Yashoda, Basudev-
Devaki by offering Sraddha and Dipa as an illustrious demonstration for the
people not to disrespect or forget parentage.

Normally people are identified with wife constituting a single family exclusive
of brothers and sisters. This develops confinement and selfishness.The
broadness of family life is demonstrated by Mahaprabhu by having elder
brother Prabhu Balabhadra and sister Subhadra seated with Him in Ratna
Singhasana and going in Ghosha Jatra (Car festival) along with them. It can
never be the intention of Mahaprabhu to leave aside Mahalaxmi, the sweet
heart. Wife has the decisive role to play to constititute a family but not at the
cost of parental family bondage.It is not the be all and end of all. True, wife
may be annoyed for a moment or fairly some time more. But sweet treatment
of husband would doubtless bring wife to love and affection as usual. This is
exactly what happens with Mahaprabhu for having not associated
Mahalaxmi in Car Festival. On the Hera Panchami day (when Prahaprabhu
with Balabhadra and Subhadra is in Gundicha temple) MahaLaxmi goes to
Gundicha Mandira in Palanquin and breaks the chariot (Nandighosh Ratha) of
Mahaprabhu damaging it slightly. On return from Gundicha temple to

63
Srimandira Mahalaxmi would allow entry of Balabhadra and Subhadra into
Srimandira but not Prabhu Jagannath As stated earlier, Mahaprabhu is self-
composed and takes things for granted. So, the rude behaviour of Mahalaxmi
being an inevitability, Mahaprabhu has the patience and tolerance with which
He could win over Mahalaxmi and get into Srimandira. Offer of gift and
sweets adds to entreatment but not the canvassing force.

Social Relationship:

On social front also the fan fare was not unwholesome. On the wedding day
of Lord Shiva, Hara Parvati, Pancha
Pandav,Jambeswar,Kapalamochan,Lokanath,Nilakantheswar,Markandeswar
ar Mahadev would assemble in the Mandap of Mahalaxmi in Srimandira after
the marriage. Sri Jagannath, Madanmohan and Mahalaxmi bless the newly
wed couple, perform Pantilagi ritual, offer them food and Arati , honour them
with Sital Manohi and bidia Paan(betel leaf).

Mini U.N.O.

To say the least, Srimandira is a mini U.N.O. Just like U.N.O. Mahaprabhu,
being the Lord of the Universe keeps account of each and every person of the
world his health, education and emancipations. Even-handed justice is also
meted out. This is not an overt act and therefore not discernible to the naked
eye. A man in the stature of Arjun could see all such activities through his
mind’s eye, should he be strenuous in this direction. Only Arjun could get the
opportunity of Viswarupa Darshan. Engineers, Doctors, Scientists boast of
their success. But if they cannot ascertain the reason behind their birth in
opulent society than in the down trodden and tell the date of their death,
then how could they take credit for themselves Straining a little with a
philanthropic bent of mind , they would not go far to realise that they are
geared up by the U.N.O. of Sri Jagannath in a particular discipline to serve
people whose welfare is the sole concern of God. They are only agents, the
source of power being the Almighty. Ananda Bazar of Srimandira is the
largest hotel of the world that provides highly hygienic balanced diet for one
and all purifying body and mind discharging the onus of keeping people

64
disease-free. The dress pattern is so designed that rich and poor can afford to
pay. Mahaprabhu therefore wears patta bastra for the richest, matha for the
richer, cotton for the rich and hand woven khadi for the poor. People of
Odisha and neighbouring states follow this ideal pattern like stitching one’s
coat according to cloth far from social taboos.The mother tounge of Devas is
Devnagari (Sanskrit) which was and is prevalent in Hinduism(Vedas and
Upanishads). Languages of all other religions are different but more or less
derived from Sanskrit of antiquity. Social culture of Srimandira (UNO) is inter-
twined and inter-woven to attract pilgrims as well as common folk to the
celebrations numbering thirteen in twelve months providing veritable
enjoyment and happiness that is imprinted in the mind of people in indelible
ink with feeling of oneness (Basudheiba Kutumbakam). The Shodashopachar
Puja (16 types of offerings) to Mahaprabhu prescribed in Hinduism is the
practical way of surrender of body and mind to God, in the instant case Sri
Jagannath. The Puja Panda and others involved in the Puja seem to have lost
their body existence. Victory of sanity over insanity has been demonstrated by
God severally. Most pathetic was the attempt at undressing Draupadi in
contrast to kidnapping of Rukmini . In the former case cloth was supplied in
the latter a seemingly unsocial work. The rationale is protection from
humiliation and upholding freedom of choice of women, albeit the modus
operandi was different. Any way even handed justice was meted out by UNO
by weeding out the perpetrators from existence.In commemoration, Rukmini
Bibaha (marriage) is performed with great pomp and enthusiasm in
Srimandira.

Dispensations of Sri Jagannath:

Approbations and Ostracisations come under this caption, irrespective of

community, caste and creed, say, in the main, Hindu, Muslim,Christian. On an
occasion the then Moghul Ruler at Delhi was ostracized, The legend goes like
this. The Ruler ordered two pillows, obviously of exquisite quality for his use.
Lord Jagannath chose taking out one surreptitiously. The tailor having failed
to deliver two pillows was put in prison. Mahaprabhu entered into the bed
room of the Ruler and caned him in his dream by revealing that He had taken
one pillow and ordered release of the tailor with grace and honour. The Ruler
65
complied with it early next morning. This was symbolic for the Ruler not to
inflict punishment disproportionate to the nature of offence besides making
him feel His presence. The Ruler felt immensely privileged for the presence of
the Lord, a rare phenomenon, in his sub-conscious stage though. It may
sound odd to a Muslim of present age.But it is in conformity with the vibrant
‘Allah hu Akbar’ pronounced by Prophet Mohammed aiming at the Almighty
who Sri Jagannath is. As a matter of fact, Emperor Akbar and even the bigot
Aurungzeb,in reverence for Lord Jagannath, made provisions for His Seba
(service) through the Uttar Parush Math engaged in meeting daily ritualistic
needs of the Lord. It may also be added here that owing allegiance to Lord
Jagannath Queen Victoria made provisions for Mahaprabhu through the said
Uttar Parush Math on the philosophical ground that Jesus Christ, like
estranged Hindu clouts, never assumed Godhood for himself but vociferously
proclaimed as the son of God meaning Sri Jagannath especially because his
twelve years’ untraceabillity was traced to Puri Saints like Guru Nanak,
Ramanuj,Santh Kabir not only spent days in Puri but also built ashrams to
maintain perpetuity of being in Seba of Sri Jagannath.. All this,to say the
least, decries fanaticism, conversion or jihad as perpetrated by diehard
fanatics, bigots and corrupt politicians creating and thriving on instability
loosening the social/religious fabric eternally sewn as one man one world.

Descending to the episode concerning the Delhi Moghul Ruler met with
punishment, a contrast is revealed here. In relation to another Muslim
whose desire the Lord fulfilled at the cost of His supremacy, by halting His
chariot on way to Gundicha Mandir in the world famous Rath Yatra until the
desirant reached Bada Danda and had His darshan on chariot..This was in
approbation of his firm faith and Bhajans par excellence in praise of the Lord
reverberating in the air touching the heart and enthralling each and every
Odia at home and abroad. Strangely,
however, its origin is traced to a distressing background. As ill luck would
have it, the Moghul Subedar Lal Beg in course of his patrolling in Puri area
picked up one Brahmin widow of Danda Mukundpur village while she was
taking bath in river despite her resistance which was feeble and futile. The
Subedar returned with her to his headquarters at Cuttck where he married

66
her, surely not without coaxing, cajoling or coercion in detraction from the
principles of holy Quran or beaten track of Akbar or sermons of Santh Kabir.
Sri Jagannath, the Supreme Lord, apparently compensated the hapless lady
with a genius to herald “Iswar Allah Tere Naam” the constituents of Sri
Jagannath, who was made to wait for him (a Muslim) as aforesaid, on the
analogy of Balaram Das who dragged Mahaprabhu to sea shore from the
chariot. This Muslim son of the destitute Hindu mother was BHAKTA SAL
BEG.

From the above narratives nothing else presumably be deduced than that
the entire world is encompassed in the heart of Lord Jagannath and the entire
humanbeing is His creation as unambiguously proclaimed in
Geeta,Ch.14,Vs.3 “Mama Yoni Mahadbrahma Tasmin Garbham
Dadamyaham. Sambhabah Sarba Bhutanam Tato Bhabati Bharata.” The
Lord,omnipresent omnipotent though, chose India (Bharata after the name of
King Bharat) as His home country fertile for creation, conservation and
propagation of Dharma (righteousness) of humanity demonstrated through
ancient sages as pioneers, not unknown to the right thinking people in the
whole world. The people born in India, ipso facto, earned the venerability of
relatively better understanding of Godhood derived from the philosophy of
reIncarnations that taught them to be passionate to people in all walks of life,
conducive to peaceful co-existence.. Their successors of whatever faith cannot
disown it. This being so,the people of Pakistan bifurcated from India in 1947
owing to mischievous designs of outgoing British Rulers and lack of prudence
and sacrifice of Indians at the helm of affairs, cannot disclaim that their
forefathers were not among the venerables. What about Santh Kabir,Bhakta
Sal Beg or Akbar referred to above, and Maulana Azad, Abdul Kalam of
present age? Speaking rationally, asceticism triumphed not confined to any
sect, community or religion. It cannot also be said that they did not constitute
brotherhood in truncated India. Monsters in any place or community
endangering peace and security for their selfish ends could be jointly fought
out and eliminated. If Berlin Wall could be broken in 1989 and East and
West Germans reunited, it stands to no reason why India and Pakistan
should remain separated and could not restore their common heritage.

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Glowing tribute goes to India for sustaining the Muslim population from 35
millions (1947) to 175 millions (2019) as against decline of Hindus from 25 %
(1947) to 01.64 % (2019) in Pakistan as per media information. Even there
are villages like Erumeli in Keral, Bhadrak, Kaipadar(Pirbaba),
Manikagoda(Muslim Priest in Durga Puja) in Odisha and many other cities in
India both Hindus and Muslims celebrate religious functions jointly and pray
in temples and masques. Even Hindus in a village near Patna (Bihar) are
maintaining and praying in a mosque left by muslims having gone out to earn
livelihood. The contentious Ayodhya earns the reputation of nourishing both
Hindus and Muslims praying in Temples and Mosques Muslims after doing
Namaj are seen chanting Hanuman Chalisha in a Hanuman temple barely 4/5
kms, away from Ayodhya. These are the live examples which have enriched
muslim population in India to take Hindu Muslim as one to amalgamate.

The Author:

It is often said transcendental knowledge reawakens man’s innate

understanding of God. For the author the God is Sri Jagannath. Not being in
association of any enlightened mass, religious institutions, muths or
monastery plenty in Srikhetra, the author is not able to realize reawakening,
if at all, because he has not felt awakening at any time. The author has never
strived for name, fame or importance in society He had no time or interest to
ponder for a moment over the intricacies of human life or the complexities in
God realization. The author thrives on ‘as is where is’ basis. His entire extra
curricular activities were confined to reciting some stotras from few religious
books like Mahalaxmi Ashtaka, Hanuman chalisha,Bhagbat Geeta etc.
Reading of such books was done not at home but in Srimandira every day
after having Darshan of Mahaprabhu all the year round since 1957 after
joining SCS College. No other thought crept into the mind of the author than
going to temple, to the College and attending to domestic errands often
falling short without the least feeling of disappointment. The author felt
embedded to Mahaprabhu spontaneously from the mini station where he
stands deprived of normal standard of life with proper home and hearth, elite
education, propitiation (Dikshya) etc. The author has not sought religious
lessons from any sadhu or Ashram heads. Although he does not cast
68
despicable look on sadhus, he is apprehensive of their success in attaining
mokshya (liberation) being in the store house of coins,gold,silver,diamond
and estates stretching to crores and crores of rupees remained unproductive
underground. But they had propagated and are propagating that they have
renounced all earthly bondage. Religious institutions are meant for welfare of
people in unenviable situations. But some institutions are seen having spent
enormously not for any temple but for building ‘samadhi’ in memory of
predecessors and ultimately for themselves to the denial of small shelters for
poor devotees.Moghul Emperor Aurangazeb wept for leaving the world
without the booty going with him collected from Hindus. The most tormentor
Sudan Hussain, erstwhile President of Iraq had to conceal himself for days
together in a toilet thriving on oxygen to escape detection and was ultimately
executed leaving his costly luxurious palaces numbering about 90. What
would be the mental condition of Hindu hoarders at their demise – a moment
for God or proceeding to Hell ?

The author has not shown his palm or horoscope to any astrologer to know
his future because he prefers living in the present. Future is the domain of
Almighty. Therefore, trying to know future is not less than invading the
kingdom of God.

The Author reveals with alacrity that he is a Class III government employee
retired as Head Clerk of Samanta Chandra Sekhar College,Puri struggling for
hand to mouth existence.He looks askance as to how he was able to resist
temptation of corruption to which even government officers in exalted
positions succumbed and are languishing in jails. However, the impeccable
records of the author helped him a smooth sailing in his entire service career.
Groomed in the scarcity of affluence he was churned into grinding halt more
often than not. But the spokes of the wheels were repaired by Sri Jagannath
time to time and at crucial moments.

The author is not a critic nor has the acumen to be so His dull head is not able
to grasp any thing. But from things as laid bare not ununderstandable to a lay
man, he picks up some thing for sake of fun . Becoming a Sadhu is one such
thing. Some leave home from childhood, suo motu or on alurement,

69
depending on circumstances in each case. Some become Sadhu at later stage
to move in a ramshackle vehicle.Afraid of insecurity such people manage to
get recognition through religious institutions and ashrams.The author
wonders what benefit in worn out physical and mental condition they would
give to the society or to themselves not well versed and oscillating in sadhu
culture. If they are sincere and serious to renounce the world Banaprstha
would have been proper course for them in tune with Hindu Dharma. But the
proverbial tactics of ‘running with the hare and hunting with the hound’
would harm them at any point of time.As a matter of fact ‘Sanyasa’ is not
meant for men with family. Every body going to forest for sanyasa unable to
bear family burden would create congestional problems needing market,
lighting and sanitary arrangements etc.For those really God-oriented, Sri
Krishna has shown the path of sanyasi at home in Geeta Ch.5 Vr,3 as under:

“Gyenyah Sa Nitya Sanyasi Yo Na Dwesti Nakamkhyati Nirdwando hi

Mahabaho Sukhabandhat Pramuchyate”

The purpose of writing this book was to express gratefulness to Mahaprabhu

for making him free from grief, frustration, corruption and obsolescence. The
force behind writing this book is not with the author but the source appears
to be Sri Jagannath since the language and the text of the book are far
beyond the comprehension of the author. This, the author strongly believes, is
the miracle of Mahaprabhu synchronizing with –

“Mukam Karoti Bachalam Pangu langhayate Giri JatKrupa

Twamaham Bande Paramananda Madhaba” meaning: With the grace of
God the dumb can be garrulous and the lame can climb up the hill. The
Author also lays stress on

“Jishi Deshamae Jishi Beshamae Jishi Haalmae Raho Radha Ramana Radha
Ramana Radha Ramana Kaho.” along with -

“ Ye Yatha Mam Prapadyante Tam Statheiba Bhajamyaham” (Geeta Ch.4

Vr.11). The Maharastrian Bhakta comprehended Sri Jagannath as Ganapati.
Mahaprabhu appeared before him as Ganapati and is being worshipped as
such on Snana Purnima Day.

70
 So instead of inflaming hatred in godhood in one or the other, the volatile
Gurus should free the innocent disciples from narrow bounds to pray to God
in their own way and the leaders should also cultivate the habit of
renunciation to bring their own mind to concentration and achieve
mokhya(salvation) for themselves as advised by Sri Krishna in Gita Ch.6 Vr.35
:

“Ashansayam Mahabaho Mano Durnigraham Chalam Abhyasena tu

Kounteya Bairagena Cha Gruhyate”

The author now proceeds with an absolutely unbelievable incident as

depicted here. Every day the author used to have darshan of Mahaprabhu
immediately after Mangal Arati . One day he was attracted with the nose
ring of Mahaprabhu made with flowers. The inner urge to get the nose ring
was so much beyond contol that he chastised himself without any one’s
notice. While returning disappointed, to his utter surprise, one servitor
brought that nose ring from Mahaprabhu and handed over to the author.The
servitor disappeared before being asked what it was about. It is left to the
revered readers to guess the purpose behind it. In layman’s view the author
attributes it to his disinterestedness in any thing as stated above which
brought him to the exclusiveness of dependence upon Sri Jagannath (
Nirashrayamam Jagadish Rakshya). Sri Krishna has also advised Arjun
(representing mankind) to come to His shelter leaving all earthly burden or
bondage for salvation as under :

” Sarba Dharman Parityajya Mamekam Sharanam Braja Aham Twa Sarba

Papevyo Mokshyayishyami Ma Suchah”(Geeta Ch.18 Vr.66).

Here again, the author solemnly declares that he has made no attempt to
tune himself but has been tuned by the Unseen to reach this stage as many
others’ similar experience bears testimony. In the event such benevolence is
conceded, the sacrosanct readers may accept all that will be stated
hereinafter as the fruit of stupidity of the author without a pinch of salt

In the year 1959 (Author came to Puri in 1957) after return from Gundicha
Mandira in Bahuda Jatra (return car festival) Mahaprabhu was present in

71
Singhadwar to have Niladri Bije within a day or two. In the evening of Niladri
Bije the author went to witness the Pahandi of the Deities. He came to Emar
Math near Singhadwar where the congregation was already huge. All of a
sudden the author saw the face of Sri Jagannath covered by big teeth. The
author asked the police man on duty if he had seen teeth of Mahaprabhu.
Criticising the author as a mad man the Police laughed at him. For about 20
minutes he stared at Mahaprabhu as if the Vishwarupa Darshan of Dwapar
Yug was granted to the author. The Police man was not wrong as also some
people, as it was only Arjun among millions in the battle field of Mahabharat
whom Sri Krishna granted Dibya Chakshyu to be able to see Vishwarupa.

”NaTumamshakyasedrastumanenaiba swachakhyusa
Didyamdadamitechakhyumpashyamae Yogamaishwaram” (Gita Ch.11 Vr.8).

If not mistaken , the author felt gratified that Mahaprabhu graced him as
Sri Krishna to Arjun, further strengthening his faith in Him. Thanking Sri
Jahannath profusedly the author returned home.

On another occasion at the end of the in the year 1960 the author had not
even a rupee to meet the requirement of the day. As per routine having
returned from Srimandira the author started for office with a bag if Rs.10/-
could be arranged to suffice his need. Those days commodities and vegetable
were very cheap to make the bag full. If not remorse, complacence was
dwindling down. What to do? The colleagues would come forward to give the
author Rs.10/. on loan. But prestige mania prevented the author as he was
the Bada Babu in office and looked at Mahaprabhu. Keeping his cycle in the
stand the author started walking upstair to his office. To his surprise he saw
some one climbing down the stair and saying he had gone to meet the author
in his office but was returning without seeing him. The author interacted with
the stranger when he offered Rs.100/- to him. The author refused to accept it,
more over his requirement was Rs.10/. Yet the stranger took the plea that he
would not be present at the time of his son’s admission in the college which
had not started and therefore he was paying the money to keep him
(stranger) free from tension. Stranger left not to be seen again. From the
cycle stand Neelachakra was visible.Looking at it tears rolled down

72
remembering the unsolicited help of Mahaprabhu, demonstrating
“Yogakhemam Bahamyaham” (Geeta Ch.9 Vr.22),.

The obeisance of the author seems to have been further rewarded yet in
another front. That is government accommodation. The author continued in
rented private houses shifting from one after another due to inadequacy of
space, unaffordable rent, misbehaviour of landlord or incongenial
atmosphere of hooliganism. Some time after PWD quarters started being
constructed. Then how could they mitigate the need of the author although
government rent would be cheaper and free from atrocities of unscrupulous
private landlords. Staff quarters are allotted by Government at the discretion
of authorities.So chances of one house coming to the author were very very
remote. Nevertheless, the author, apparently propelled by Sri Jagannath,
visited the construction site twice, once at preliminary stage and next after
completion of the quarters He even selected the middle house safe from all
angles if it could fall in his lot. The staff quarters’ site was named as LIC
Colony. The House Allotment Committee met and allotted house to
appropriate departments. Soon after one Lecturer revealed to the author in
office that one quarter had been allotted to the College. Even then there was
gap between the cup and the leap in that the Principal was the authority to
allot the quarter to one of the college staff. The allotment letter from PWD
was duly placed on his table. The need based consideration coupled with work
indispensability favoured the author who was thus allotted with the quarter
which again matched the selection of the author. The author remained in the
house till his retirement. All auspicious occasions like thread ceremony,
marriages were held in that house.

A thought entered the mind of the author as to where should he stay after
retirement. His parental house in a small village named Bhaliabadi just at 3
k.m. distance from Khurda Town (Odisha) was too small to accommodate his
family along with his other two brothers’ families The author had no other
alternative than praying to Sri Jagannath with implorations that author’s
coming to Puri, service in college, allotment of govt.quarters and even giving
Darshan were His grace and settlement on retirement could not be an
exception. Mahaprabhu yielded and drew a scheme in chronological order as
73
per which the land owner was located and sold his plot near Gachhakali
temple of Kalikadevi Sahi, cash flow from various sources for payment of land
cost was smooth. The stumbling block that stood in the way was shortage of
Rs,1000/- for land registration which was also miraculously arranged
without the least effort by the author. He then after house construction
shifted to his own house where he is continuing.To commemorate the grace
of God, the house is named as ‘Sri Jagannath Krupa Niketan’ Compassionate
readers would rest a while on the magnanimity of Mahaprabhu fulfilling the
desire of the devotee perfect in all respects either in govt. quarter or his own
house.

As stated earlier, the author used to read religious books daily in Srimandira.
One day while reading the Bhagabat Geeta he felt thirsty. He could have gone
outside to have a glass of water but for being in the midst of some chapter.
All of a sudden some servitor met the author with a tender coconut (Dab) by
which the author quenched his thirst . The servitor was however not to be
seen again. More or less a similar event occurred one day when the author
was inclined to take mahaprasad in Ananda Bazar of Srimandira but had no
money in pocket. Although many Suars(Vendors) were known to him who
could serve mahaprasad with understanding to be paid later the inhibition
was shamefulness that deterred the author to disclose his internal desire.
While coming out of Ananda Bazar one back complexioned servitor stood
before the author and offered mahaprasad in a broken earthen plate saying
it was free of cost. Taking it as Mahaprabhu’s grace the author accepted it
thankfully.

The author established a mini library at his govt. quarter comprising among
others Astadasha Purans(Epics) which he used to read at leisure. Having
learnt about Rishi Vasistha maintaining Kamdhenu. the author cherished an
idea to keep a kamadhenu at his home so that cheese made out of milk could
be served to Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra since not all cheese
available around Srimandira is being offered to Mahaprabhu. That was no
doubt a wishful thinking in the morning but not marred by heretic
inclination. Immersed in office work the author totally forgot about it. On
return from office the dinner served to author that evening included a pot of
74
cheese which he did not buy. On enquirying, his wife said the cheese was
brought to his house by a college staff saying it was sent by the author.Next
day in office the staff who delivered cheese at his home was questioned for
the falsehood. His simple reply was that on seeing plenty of cheese in grand
road he was happy to buy some cheese for the author. Tears came out on
thinking that an intensive desire to serve Almighty boomerangs on the
devotee in such positive manner. The author thought of feeding Mahaprabhu,
in turn Mahaprabhu fed him. The intrinsic value hereof is to be evaluated by
the valued readers.

Circuiting Ratna Sighasan is a sinful act as has been decried hereinbefore. But
quite sometime back the author, foolishly though, followed the steps of those
walking on Ratna Singhasan and wished to go inside but was not allowed. He
was having Darshan of Mahaprabhu every day standing near the inside
wooden log(Bhitara Katha). That day he thought of circuiting Ratna
Singhasan. The beloved God would not hesitate to fulfil the desire of the
devotee who is internally pure even if it meant a wrong doing. So a servitor
came and took the author inside to satisfy his desire. If in common a mistake
is allowed then why a devotee would be deprived of. That may be the reason
for Mahaprabhu to oblige the author leaving the right to be appreciated by
him at his own will. This happened to be so when at a later date the author
realized the mistake in walking on Ratna Singhasan and begged apology for
the same.

Another topic is served here to drive home the fact that firm faith in God
turns dreams to reality. It related to the illness of the wife of the author.
Moderately treated his wife’s illness did not subside. The solace for the author
was Sri Jagannath. So Mahaprabhu appeared in dream when the author
placed the problem before Him. Curiously Mahaprabhu cracked joke with the
author with suggestion for remarriage to which the author declined.
Apparently the test was over. Mahaprabhu and Sri Balabhadra offered him
garlands known as Agyanmala in dream. It was all over. In the morning the
author was astonished to see that the health condition of his wife improved
and within few days she came to normal.

75
 As already stated, the author established a mini library in his house. Most of
the books were purchased from Vidya Bhaban, Dolamandap Sahi. Its owner
was Sri Rajkishore Mishra, an intimate friend of the author.The books so
purchased included one set of Nrusingha Purana. Once whle listing out the
books available in the library the author found two sets of Nrusingha Puran.
Confused, the author rushed to the book store to ascertain how many sets of
Nrusingha Puran they sold to him. On verifying their records they confirmed
only one set was sold to him. Logically speaking, why two sets of one Puran
would be purchased by the author? His children also denied having purchased
one set extra.This was the fun Mahaprabhu played with the author as a
child’s game apparently to bring him nearer to Him.

Another dream featured an actual event. Some twenty years back the author
in his dream saw Prabhu Balabhadra stepping down from Ratna Singhasan
and going towards the west side of the temple via mukti mandap. Many
people thronged around prayed for and got their desires fulfilled by
Balabhadra. The author followed suit and in his turn Prabhu Balabhadra took
out Sri-kapada (a piece of cloth out of cloth) and a bunch of key and handed
over to the author with direction to disperse. In the dream there was no clue
about which key would unlock which lock and in which room. Friends whom
the author revealed the dream opined it was auspicious. In 1992 the author
retired from govt.service and joined the Palace of Gajapati Maharaja as
Assistant Manager in 1993. As already stated, Gajapati King’s representative
was one of the three members for joint operation of jewellery transaction.
The Maharaja made the author his representative in this behalf. The dream
was the prediction and the author discharged this responsibility for eight
years (1993-2000) with grace and gratitude to Mahaprabhu.

A Bipad Bhanjana(thrashing out danger)event is depicted here. During the

tenure of Dr.Srinivas Sahoo, Principal Government in Education Department
sought vital information to answer queries raised in State Assembly.As is
commonly known, Assembly Questions brook no delay. The Principal had to
depend upon the author to furnish the required information. The author as
usual proceeded to give the relevant file to the Principal but to his utter
dismay the file was not found in its normal place or any where in office.
76
Repeated search was made but with no result. Pressure with dire
consequence was mounted. The author was struck awe-inspired. It would
cost his service. In distress he sat on meditation and Mahaprabhu responded
to his call. On a re-search the file was located from a place which was
searched eailier and served the purpose for which it was required. What could
it be said ? This reassures God’s presence in such predicaments of those
surrendered to God.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) New Delhi recommends government

grants to educational institutions on the basis of data on various aspects
e.g.student-teacher strength, constitutional propriety, financial stability,
extra-curricular potentiality etc. as ascertained on visual inspection. During
the Principalship of Dr.Damodar Mishra, Letter from UGC was received
conveying the date of visit of UGC Commision to SCS College. Sword of
Democles hung on the office staff headed by the author to collect and collate
data within seven days. Worked day and night office could compile only 75%
of the job. Strict disciplinarian Principal would not hesitate to take a pound of
flesh in the event of failure to adhere to the stipulated date. It was just not
possible to make up the deficiency within a day to come. Just as Draupadi
leaving body consciousness raised her hands, the over tired author with his
colleagues abandoned efforts and sat chanting self-composed hymns in
praise of Sri Jagannath..Before expiry of the stipulated date a telegram was
received by the Principal from UGC postponing the Commission’s visit by
seven days. The author could not control tears coming out of his eyes
focussed at Mahaprabhu. The balance 25% work was completed at ease
within the adjourned time. UGC Commission was pleased with data supplied,
Principal thanked College staff and Government grant was received by the
College.

Looking at the social customs and performance of holy rites prevalent in India
an American Economist observed that given 50 built-in steel plants India will
continue to remain poor. This is the catastrophe even today.Individual
functions like children marriages etc. are of course exceptions in which ill-
gotten money of self-centred blackmarkters, corrupt politicians or the like are
lavishly squandered away even by making use of helicopters to take the bride
77
to in-law’s home. But the not highly placed and less well-to-do common man
like the Author bears the brunt of stigma that goads him till last in the event
of non-performance or lackadaisical celebration of such functions owing to
fanatic fibre of blind-faith binding the conservative society. The author was
thus coerced into performing the marriage of his third daughter at an expense
far beyond his means. Retired from service and living on paltry pension, the
author was pennyless having already exhausted the little that he had in the
Upanayan (sacred thread) ceremony of three sons and marriage of two
daughters. Who would come forward to help him with depleted financial
stability? Negotiation was over, date was fixed for marriage but the author
had no courage to face the groom’s party. With the prayer “ Nirashraya
Mam Jagadisha Rakshya” he fell at the feet of Sri Jagannath in Srimandira.
Unbelievable though, people not so symphathetic to the author came forward
with offer to help on loan basis and a sizeable amount of Rs.one lakh and
thirty five thousand came to his hand and the marriage was solemnized with
a fairly dignified manner to the satisfaction of all concerned, the repayment
of loan being done on easy instalments without adversely affecting family
maintenance. .

The esteemed Readers by this time might have felt disgusted with the
personal topics of the author. But he is vociferous because the grace of Sri
Jagannath is connected with each event which comes out from the core of his
heart. Readers may bear with him with an ascetic bent of mind drawing a
reference to Hiranya Kashipu off and on uttering Vishnu. Vishnu, Vishnu in
despise but unconsciously chanting God’s name ultimately to get salvation
consciously. In contrast, however, the author stands on a different footing in
that he has uttered the name of Sri Jagannath in praise ever since he entered
Srimandir

The author some time in the past suffered from urinal disorder that
warrented operation in Cuttack Medical with a stay of 10 days. Before leaving
Puri he had Darshan of Mahaprabhu with a diamond tilak on forehead and
that too glowing and emitting light. This was an abnormal phenomenon
which according to the belief of the author was the indication of blessings of
Mahaprabhu for safe operation and early relief. This came true. Intervener
78
was an event when some other person returning from Puri served
mahaprasad to the author just because he longed for it while an indoor
patient. The next factor for adoration of God was that probably to provide
mental relief in physical pain Sri Nrusingha Mahaprabhu appeared in the
dream of the author and advised him to chant the Mantra:

“OmUgrabeeramMahaprabhum JwalantamSarbatomukham Nrusinham

Bhesanam Bhadram Mrutyur Mrutyum Namamyaham” .

On chanting the mantra in sub-conscious mind the author got mental as well
as physical relief. On return to Puri he proceeded to Srimandira and
expressed heartfelt gratitude to Mahaprabhu.

Steadfastness in determination, especially in devotion to God, works

miraculous as will be evident from the topic as follows. One day because of
heavy rain, thunder and lightening in prevous night, electric wires were lying
helter skelter on the road filled with water. Unmindful author in his craze to
have daily Darshan of Mahaprabhu left home on his bicycle. He reached
Srimandira, had Darshan and returned home. He was scared to know only on
return that the electric wires were live with power. He was astounded with
the gimmick of Mahaprabhu to demonstrate safety of man unconscious of
body

Month end situation with class III and class IV employees is precarious
deteriorating from 15th onwards. The author, a class III(stated severally) had
to attend his second sister’s marriage in Khurda with contribution as per
social custom .Left with only Rly. Ticket money from Khurda Road to Puri the
author reached home to join duty the next day. At the month end who would
give him loan till salary came because all colleagues more or less sailed in the
same boat. In economic quagmire he became speechless. On opening door of
the front room, he saw a closed envelop lying on the floor. On opening a
cheque was found inside. It was for Rs.300/- adequate for family maintenance
till receipt of salary. The author’s joy knew no bound recollecting “Yoga
Khyema Bahamyaham “ dispensation of Mahaprabhu.

Travesty of Truth :

79
 Conscientious Readers having gone through the stress and strain suffered by
the author that evaporated like smoke screen owing to the miraculous
dispensations of Sri Jagannath. as aforesaid, may not doubt his bona fides in
portraiting certain inconceivable and incongruous assertions detected in a
spiritual Book spread all over the world, by dint of somewhat materialistic
endeavours. Some of such distortions or perversions are enumerated below:

Sri Krisna is commonly believed as Param Brahma Vishnu incarnate with the
attributes as both Nirakar and Sakar worshipped by devotees with or
without form. His magnanimity seems to have been curtailed by squeezing
Him to ‘Sakara’ with an assertion that Sri Krisna cannot be ‘Nirakara’.

Sri Krishna’s teachings to Arjun stretched upto and including Chapter 18. The
Lord’s prudence has been over-ridden by contending that Bhagabat Gita
ends with Chapter 17 albeit with a self-contradiction that the gist of the Gita
is contained in verse 66 of Chapter 18.

A civilisational hazard eroding Indian philosophy has been inducted by

comprehending extra-marital affair as the ideal means of reaching or
satisfying Sri Krishna, far from the model of Gopis. Such anti-social unethical
comprehensions are on all counts deplorable..

‘Om’ is the primal sound of Universe renowned in a letter to form the basis
of ‘Swadhaya’ in meditation, being exclusively prefix to any Mantra and
finally as the Gate-way to Heaven. (Gita Ch.8,Vr.13). This exclusiveness of
‘Om’ has been obliterated by making it inclusive as the sound contained in ‘
Hare Krishna’ Bhajan.

Business comes within the ambit of Dharma (religion). Inclusdion of ‘Black-

marketing’within the fold of business, as has been done in the Book under
discussion, triggers a problem,of ‘double fallacy’. First, it is a social crime
punishable under law. Second, a crime cannot be intended by Sri Krishna to
form part of business i.e. Dharma . Inasmuch as no profession is free from
blemish, be it business with a bit of falsehood or begging alms by Brahmin
embarrassing the donors at times, the businessman or Brahmin or others
should not abandon their avocations and switch over to another Dharma

80
even if faultless (Gita Ch.18, V. 47). Thus by advising to continue ‘Kala Bajara’
i.e. black-marketing, the Writer seems to have made himself blame-worthy
within the tenets of “ Adharmam dharmamiti ya manyate tamasabruta…”
(Gita Chap.18, Vr.32).

While adherence to principles of Gita is optional for people in general, their

practice in life is compulsory for Gita interpreters to extricate themselves from
the blur of hipocrisy. By claiming ‘Credit’ and accordingly showing Karta
(maker) of the Book, the writer has identified himself with the nomenclature
‘Ahamkara Bimudhatma’ within the phraseology of Gita Chap. 3, Verse 27.

From “Nasto Mohah Smrutirlabdha Twat Prasada-nmayachyuta, Sthitosmi

Gata Sandehah Karishye Bachanam Taba”( Gita, Chapt.18 Vr.73), it is
abundantly clear that Arjun committed to carry out the mission of Sri Krishna,
i.e. fight out the Mahabharat battle at the end of His teachings at Chap.18.
Prior to this, there is no shred of evidence/ indication in Gita showing Arjun
having pledged to comply with Sri Krishna’s instructions, far less fighting, the
reluctance of which played the role of mother to Bhagabat Gita for
redemption of human being. Be it reiterated, Arjun rose to fight the Dharma
Yudha in obedience to Sri Krishna after his illusions, attachments disappeared
(Chapter 18}. . It is also in Mahabharat that Sri Krishna was mediator
approaching Duryodhan for Pancha Pada (hamlets) for Pandavas with the
sole intention of avoiding battle.Then how could the ‘population reduction; be
connected with Mahabharat Had Sri Krishna any inclination to reduce
population on this score, expressed or implied, he would not have gone for a
compromise. Even when Sri Krishna hintrd at population reduction
(Chapt.11) Arjun did not come forward to fight even though Sri Krishna said
“ Nimitta Matra Bhaba Sabyasachin”. He got ready only after “Nasto Mohah”
(Chap.18) as aforesaid. Population reduction that comes under materialism
does not find place in spiritualism. In total distortion and negation of all that
is stated above, Mr.B has stated after Chap.18 at Page 786 of Odia Edition of
his Book that only when Arjun came to know that Sri Krisna intended to
reduce population, he rose to fight. This is a blatant misrepresentation of fact,
may be as an innovation to dilute the faith of men in divinity of Sri Krishna
and spirituality of Bhagabat Gita apparently to fortify his imaginary
81
distinction among other Gita writers whom he has castigated on several
fronts.

A Vaishnav has to abide by the principles enunciated by Sri Chaitanya that

include to be humble and not to compare self with others. There is flagrant
violation of the same by the sole Writers showing superior to other Gita
Interpreters and astronomically demonizing them.

Perceptions vary on Conceptual derailments :

Perceptions do differ from man to man depending upon one’s conceptual

decipherence between apparent and real. Few examples are given on
thinkings of equally circumstanced persons in equal or identical situations.
Two passengers reached destination safe. One said it was due to well
transport condition and able driving.The co-passenger attributed it to God’s
grace. Two students passed out successfully. One said it was because of his
sharp intellect and hard labour while the other expressed gratitude to God
for enabling him come out with a flying colour.Now a reference is made to
conceptions of two American Presidents Barack Obama and Donald Trump.
The missions were similar i.e to crack down terrorism and jihadism to
eradicate global menace. Authority or empowerment was the same. Osama
bin Laden was killed under stewardship of Obama while Abu Bakr al
Baghdadi was done away with under Trump’s monitorship. Donald Trump
glorified brutal killikng of Baghdadi saying Baghdadi died like a dog .But on
same operation of killing Bin Laden Obama held true to the ideals ‘one
nation, under God, indivisible with liberty and justice for all’.

Interpretation of Bhagabat Gita is a perennial exercise done by spiritual

Pundits.The Pundits have done it in their individual intellectual ability
adhering to teachings of Sri Krishna as best as possible without least
inclination of showing self or commenting on co-writers. But the writer of
one such Gita, claiming it to be in original form, has shabbily labelled all
other co-writers, even by saying in America that there is no correct Gita in
India from where Gita originated . Perhaps his conceptual superiority dogged

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his perceptions different from those of co-writers, he himself being an
Indian, probably as the greatest respect for his mother country.

From what is enumerated above and further detailed hereafter, the erudite
Readers may categorise to which group the lone writer belongs.

The unique interpreter(Mr.B) has derived support from his self- composed
‘Krisna Chetana’ and Krishna Tatwa’ as the guiding factors behind his
interpreting Gita purportedly without fault and attributed ignorance of
Krishna Tatwa to alleged erroneous interpretation of Gita by all other writers.
The mirror of his exquisite interpretations is already set in before. He does not
acknowledge various epics and shashtras in adoration of Sri Krishna as
ingredients of Krishna Chetana or Krishna Tatwa. Even the writer does not
find flavour in the most popular ovational ‘Madhurashtakam’ focussing
sweetness in all facets of Krishna consciousness. Its first two lines are
reproduced below for an appreciation by esteemed Readers.

“ Adharam Madhuram, Badanam Madhuram, Nayanam Madhuram,

Hasitam Madhuram, Hrudayam Madhuram, Gamanam Madhuram
Madhuradhiopate Rakhilam Madhuram”.

The chronology of ideologies as aforesaid devoid of spirit of Madhurastakam

grows eloquent against the assumed Krishna Chetna or Krishna Tatwa or
that Gita came to him from Narada or his interpretations are as of Sri
Krishna, notwithstanding the common ground that faith needs no logic,
option being left for the elite Readers to conclude otherwise, if at all.

God’s annoyance on Pride:

There is a colloquial lore in Odia – “Gali Mum Sahibi garba nasahibi dandake
chuna karibi” meaning God tolerates rebukes but does not countenance pride
and smashes it instantaneously. Sri Ram did not spare even Hanuman, His
dearest Bhakta for his covert pride, after crushing to death Ravan known for
his overt pride . On return from Sri Lanka with Devi Sita and the regiment Sri
Ram halted in Ashram of Rishi Bharadwaj en route Ayodhya. Rishi Bharadwaj
omitted the name of Hanuman while naming the victors like Sugrib and

83
Jambaban as he saw in his meditation before Ram narrated the warfare.
Hanuman took the omission for amish and wondered how Bharadwaj omitted
him, the mightiest in the operation.. The Antaryami Sri Ram caught him on
wrong foot and advised Hanuman to go to the orchard with his associates
and quench their hunger as cooked food would be late. Monkeys as per
nature damaged more than fruit consumption. The head guard’s warning
went in vain. Fighting ensued and Hanunman was over-powered on the point
of death by the ordinary Watchman. Hanuman prayed Ram not for life but to
uphold His fame as ‘Bhakta Batchhal’(saviour of devotee) known to the
world.The watchman hearing name of Sri Ram released Hanuman and
prostrated before him as Sri Ram by killing granted Mukti to his father
Rakshyas Kabandha. Deeply wounded with blood oozing out Hanuman
returned to Ashram to state, in reply to Sri Ram’s query, that he had taken
fruits obviously in remoarse and repentance.

Reverse is the posture of God on rebukes from honest, prideless pious souls
like Sribatchha Brahim who even hit on His chest by foot and the Lord
preserved it as the heavenly flower Parijat in commemoration as the prayer
goes : “ Shri Padmanava Pursottama Basudeba Baikuntha Madhav
Janardana Chakrapane Shribatchha Schinnah Saranagata Parijata Shri
Venketa Chalapate Taba Suprabhatam” Anther instance is also served here in
which in his prayer the Bhakta Kabisurya Baladev Rath equated Jagannath
with snake in his prayer known as ‘Sarpa Janana’ in a form of rebukes and Sri
Jagannath held him with highest esteem. A few words of the prayer are as
under:

“ Tumbhanku Jagannatha Aaja Mo Manoratha Purna Karibi Dei Gali….Balae

Kundali Se Aapanata Bisheshe… Shovita Makara Kundale…Hey Mahaprabhu”.

The special Gita Interpreter is to be judged from the angle of what is

described here and before about him in conjunction with abuses towards co-
writers, in scant regard for Sri Chaitanya and even Sri Krishna.

This author is not a regular reader of books. The book in question, reached
him unusually without any price paid for it . A cursory glance through the

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introductory chapter of the book provoked inquisitiveness to get into it with a
little more attention. The book is a Bhagabat Gita like many other Gita
Books but with the distinction as “Moulika Rupare” meaning in original form.
There is no clue provided as to the practicability of the book having came to
the Gita writer from Narada and the modality of Sri Krishna vindicating the
terminology of his interpretations. Yet, as per Hindu mythology miracles do
happen which are accepted on face value. This author on Sri Jagannath has
unfolded many miraculous events of his life for which he has no proof. Thus it
is idle to expect any proof in support of the contention of the Gita interpreter
that his interpretations are as per wish of Sri Krishna.

In the absence of proof, Preponderance of Probability stands straight to clear

the cloud of suspicion. The subject matter being on spiritual plane, Ethics,
embodiment of sobreity, self-denied achievements and good behavior, reigns
supreme in gauging the Probability as substitute of proof. A glimpse of the
matter has been served earlier. The contents thereof are discussed here only
to bring forth the real understanding of Godhood vis-à-vis behavioural
pattern of a Bhakta as against vilifications and accusations on false and
frivolous grounds, the distinctive title of the Book being the sinecure.

A spiritually oriented writer adheres to the cardinal principles of writing a

book is to present facts and events, passion and ethos etc. but not to compare
self with any other or hurl unauthorized adverse comments on other writers.
Contrary to this results in counter criticism even exceeding in valour or
vigour. In other words, one who sows the wind reaps the whirl wind. This is
unfortunately in relation to a book titled ‘ Bhagabat Gita in Moulika Rupare’
with its author identified as Mr.B for the sake of brevity..

To begin with,despite despicable, contumacious expression like “Ahamkara

Bimudhatma” in Gita Ch 3 Vr.27, Mr.B welcomed it by claiming ‘credit’ for
the book (vide Page KHA) reading as under :

‘Jadi Byaktigata Bhabare Ethire Mora Kichhi Bahaduri Thae Tahahele Taha
Kebala Kaunasi Prakara Apamishrana Nakari Bhagabat Geetaku Moulika
Rupare Prakasha Karibaku Chesta Kariba Byatita Aau Kichhi Nuhen”

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(meaning : If there is any credit personally for me then that is only due to
publishing the Bhagabat Geeta in its original form without making any
adulteration to it and nothing else.)

One may be at a loss to comprehend as to how a materialistic thought of

‘credit’ or ‘discredit’ crept into the mind of a spiritual head like Mr.B. This
leaves a question as to spiriality in personal life He is surely not unaware of
the topic leading to Arjun setting up funeral pyre and Bhim exstinguishing it.
Yudhisthir blamed Sri Krishna for Mahabharat Yudha and subsequent death
of Kauravas. Arjun earlier vowed to kill the person who would speak against
Sri Krishna or die in the event he could not kill the defaulter.Yudhisthir being
his own brother he could not think of killing him and set fire to end himself. At
the critical moment Sri Krishna appeared on the scene and asked Arjun
before dying to say what were the activities he did till then. Like a parrot
Arjun narrated all his creditable deeds. Then Sri Krishna asked Bhim to
exstiguish the fire by saying that one who speaks of his glorious deeds is
considered as dead. So the dead Arjun had no right to get into fire and the
matter ended there. If such sermons escape the prudence of the
Krishnatatwabits, the best of whom is the self-proclaimed Mr.B, then who
would follow these? Sporadic casual appreciations obtained on approach are
only by courtesy that do more harm than good to the Society. One such
instance relates to a certificate granted by. Mother Theresa from Calcutta to
a gentleman who was seen to have used it as a sheet anchor to be known as a
philanthrophist which he was not.

In Page ‘KHA’ of his Book Mr.B has stated further as under:

“Sadharanatah Tathakathita Pandita, Rajanitigyan Neta Darsanika Ebam

Swamigana Bhagabatgitara Vashya Lekhilabele Krushnanku Nirbasana
Karibaku Kimba Maridebaku Chesta Karanti, Karana Semanankara
Krushnanka Sambandhare Purna Gyana Nathae.”

(Meaning: Generally, the so-called Pundits, Politicians, Leaders, Philosophers

and Swamis while interpreting Bhagabat Geeta try to put in exile or kill Sri
Krishna because they do not possess full knowledge about Sri Krishna.).

86
 Here again Mr.B has not disclosed the basis on which he declared that the
Pundits,Philosophers,Swamis etc. do not have any knowledge about Sri
Krishna. He has also not advanced any reason why they would try to
abandon or kill Sri Krishna instead of stopping book writing if Sri Krishna
would be unintelligible to them or they belong to Pundarika Basudev group.
Without Sri Krishna how could they make a Bhagabat Gita or would they
abuse Sri Krishna in the Book?. Was their intention mischievous while sitting
on writing Bhagbat Gita? If according to Mr.B Sri Krishna was segregated or
killed . what remained for them to complete their book?. Can Mr.B produce a
Bhagabat Gita without mention about Sri Krishna even by a heretic? These
are the searching questions for which there is no answer from Mr.B . So the
statements quoted above are as baseless as building a castle in the air in
support of his assumed greatness. .

Mr.B’s another statement appearing in Page ‘GA’ of his Bhagabat Gita is

reproduced below:

“Samsari Pandita Ba Bhoutikabadi Pandita (Shastragyna Mane Semanankara

Asuri Bhabadharaku Prachara Kariba Nimitta Bhagabat Geetara Suyoga
Neichhanti.”

” (meaning: The knowledgeous Gruhastha or materialistic Pundits have used

Bhagabat Gita as a ploy to propagate their demonic thoughts.)”.

This appears to be a sinister move by the cynic Mr.B to place him at the top
by hook or by crook. Otherwise it is totally incomprensible that knowledgeous
persons would have monstrous thinkings. Even taking it for granted, why
should they choose Bhagabat Gita as the outlet. Could they insert their
demonic aspirations, if at all, in Sri Krishna or His manifestations in the
Bhagabat Gita? Are the readers so fool as not to understand the gimmicks, if
any, played by the authors grouped by Mr.B ? In the absence of any material
in support of the allegations, these are cryptic in nature and the conduct of
Mr.B is reprehensible.

Mr.B is eloquent in castigating all Bhagabat Gita writers except him in many
ways, one of them being not touching the tatwa(inner intent) but putting

87
their own views as at page 3 of his book. But he has not clarified if their views
were running against Sri Krishna or detrimental to society nor any example of
vicious views of others (at least one or two) has been provided by him.
This,therefore, falls to the ground as uncalled for acrimonious remarks.

The most despicable word “ Alpabudhisampanna” used by Mr.B at page 14

of his book runs contrary to the words“Amanena Manadena”(give prestige to
the undeserving) prescribed by Sri Chaitanya, founder of Vaishnav cult to
which Mr.B belongs. Looking at this and other behavioural pattern of Mr.B
besides his royal style of living, leaves little to place reliance on his averment
at page 14 of his book that Sri Chatanya advised him to keep away from
Mayabadi(mundane) or that he was obedient to Sri Chaitanya. Lastly, the
parameter or the method by which Mr.B has assessed himself ‘Bahu
budhisampanna’ and others ‘Swalpa budhisampanna’ has not been disclosed
any where in his book. From all counts and all angles of vision it can be said
that Mr.B has profusedly misused or abused the unlimited blessings of God
showered on him as well as others coming within the perimeter of -

“ Partha Naibehanamutra Binashastasya Bidyate Na hi Kalyanakrut

kaschitdurgatim tata gachhati”(Gita.Ch.6 Vr.40).

It is astonishingly observed that Mr.B has taken the ‘OM’ for a particle which
is how he has argued that Sri Krishna is not Nirakar Param Brahma because
he cannot be less than anything (material object) vide Page 14 of his Book.
Perhaps Mr.B is yet to understand that the Nirakar Parmabrahma is in OM
which is non-existent for a visionary look but is an imagination of mind. There
is no dispute that Sri Krishna is Sakar Param Brahma in idol and there can be
no dispute that Sri Krishna is Nirakar Param Brahma in ‘OM’.

Mr.B seems to have made cracks in the edifice of happy conjugal lives by
holding closeness to Sri Krishna is easier for an estranged wife likenig illicit
relationship with the paramour as is glaring at Page 29 of his Book reading
as under :

“Jadi Kounasi Bibahita Striloka Anya Eka Purusha Prati Asakta Hue Kimba
Kounasi Eka Purusha Tara Bibahita Stri Byatita Anya Eka Stri Prati Asakta Hue

88
Tahahele Se Asakti Drudha Hue. …Sehi Striloka Epari Asakta Hoithae, Se Tara
Gruha Karmare Byastathile Sudha Tara Premikaku Bhetiba Pain Sabubele
Chinta Karuthae. ....Tara Swami Kadapi Bhabibaku Abasara Paiba Nahin Je
Tara Stri Anya Eka Purusha Prati Asakta Boli”

(meaning briefly –love between a paramour and estranged wife is deeper

than the married life and the wife remembers the paramour in course of her
domestic works in her husband’s house but ensuring faultlessness or precision
to avoid suspicion of her husband that she is attached to a paramour).

This is the Krishna Tatwa what Mr B has unhesitatingly brought out in his
book as quoted above. He has not cared for the upheavals that would plague
the Society, so long less afflicted by foreign culture. It may not be wrong to
hold that to please the pay masters from whom Mr.B has got resources to
print and commercialise his book all over and spent lavishly against the
ethics of Sri Chaitanya he has inducted such deplorable propositions in the
book. Inasmuch as none except Sri Krishna be expected to make Brindaban or
play Rasa, the exasperating notions of Mr.B ,an Indian, have gone against the
sacred theme of ‘Pati Parameswara’ in Indian culture..

Mr.B has projected that from Sri Krishna the Bhagabat Gita was handed
down to him in Vaishnavite order. It is wondered whether or not with the
feeling of ‘Niraste Padape Deshe Erondopi Drumayate’ he accepts that in the
manner he got, original text must have come to other writers otherwise they
could not have made their books (Bhagabat Gita) although Mr.B has
discarded them as poor man’s meat is rich man’s poison. It needs no
repetition that Mr.B was wealthy with foreign patronage. But there is no sign
of renunciation as required of him within the meaning of “Bairagena cha
gruhyate” (Gita Chap.6.Vr.35). It is the common knowledge as per Gita that
one in possession of wealth but devoid of renunciation cannot achieve
concentration or for the matter of that salvation. It is also noticed that many
other ashram heads and religious preceptors are reluctant to part with their
material possessions till end of life. Resultantly many also go in coma and
obviously the word “OM” would not come to them at their last breath what
they preach to their disciples as under :

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“ OmityekakhyaramBrahma Byaharanmamanusmaran Yah Prayari
Tyejandeham Sa Yati Parama Gatim”(Ch.8 Vr13)

A self-frustrating feature is served to test the veracity of Mr.B in chastising

brother writers for allegedly adding their own opinion while interpreting
Bhagabat Gita. By saying that Bhagabat Gita is complete with Chapter 17
vide Page 732 of his book he has forgotten that he has used his own opinion
against Sri Krishna having ended Bhagabat Gita with Chapter 18 including,
inter alia, the following Verse(66) :

“ Sarbadharman Parityajya Mamekam Sharanam Braja AhamTwaSarba

Papevyo Mokhyayishyami Ma Shuchah”

Mr.B seems to have failed to perceive that the force with which Arjun could
adhere to this teaching was all that Sri Krishna said upto and including
Chap.17 to enable Arjun to have strength of mind to cross the last rung of the
ladder(materialism) and cling on to Sri Krishna known as absolute surrender.
This is therefore the cream of Bhagabat Gita which Mr.B lamentably opted to
lose sight of.

Gita really ends with “Jatra Yogeshwara Krishnoh Jatra nnnnnnnPartho

Dhanurdharh, Tatra Shribijayo Bhutirdhruba Nitirmatirmama” If Gita was
complete with Chapter 17 and Chapter 18 was redundant according to Mr.B,
then why should Sri Krisnha have not stopped at Chap.17 when all were in
wait for fighting? Was Sri Krishna inconsiderate or falling short of prudence to
make Chap.18 in the opinion of Mr.B ? Logic apart, Mr.B exemplified that
even God’s action would come under scrutiny within the ambit of his much
hyped ‘Krishna Tatwa’.What more readers are to learn from Mr.B is left to
their wisdom, while this author considers himself not fit even for a grain of
dust under the feet of Mr.B.

By any stretch of philosophical thinking it cannot be accepted that the ’

Krishna Tatwa’ is so fragile to countenance false ego, pride, vilifications,
and distortions as demonstrated by Mr.B which are the very anti-thesis of it in
toto.

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Be that as it may,howsoever flamboyant the assertions of Mr.B, the fact
remains that all writers of Bhagabat Gita are blessed souls to be respected by
Society and their books to be recognised at par with each other irrespective of
volume or verbosity, placing body,mind and soul on the lotus feet of the
Murali Manohar Sri Krishna.

For all those who matter. It is made crystal clear that the dull headed author
has no contribution of his own but accidentally on going through the book of
Mr.B as if Sri Jagannath induced the author to say something, he has said
something as above. The author has not seen Mr.B and as such the question
of animosity or rivalry, if at all, does not arise. Neverthelesss, before parting
with the topic on Bhagabat Gita of Mr.B it is said that his feeling of
sovereignty and illogical conclusions seem to have an unholy impact on the
disciples and their successors constituting ISKCON who have behaved
erratically and unethically in relation to Rath Yatra of Sri Jagannath, although
they have built temples and installed Sri Jagannath all over the world. But
their faith and devotion to Sri Jagannath is in grave jeopardy. The rites and
rituals of Lord Jagannath as also the scheduled date of Rath Yatra are not
unknown to them. Yet they resort to over-ride the schedule by attempting to
celebrate Rath Yatra on days other than ‘Ashadha Shukla Dwitiya’ on their
sweet will and pleasure. Thus they make mockery of Sri Jagannath culture
and come under the vices of Gita, Chapt.16,Vr.17. The latest attempt refers
to Ludhiana (India) to celebrate Car festival in the second week of September
2019 which was thwarted by the Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singh Deb who
deplored such vexacious conduct of ISKCON smeared with false Ego of
exclusive superiority over all traditional celebrations at Puri besides other
places held by Sri Chaitanya cult Vaishnavas. Sri Jagannath and the pure
Bhakti attached with the function are devoured by the extra pomp, grandeur
and opulence leading to -.

” Atmasambhabitah Stabdhah Dhanamana Madanwitah

YajantaNamayagneiste Dambhenabidhipurbakam.”(16/17)

“Taba ‘Badhati’ Badhate”

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It arises from Vikramaditya’s Kingdom. Once Raja Vikramadiya was going on
a Palanquin in which Poet Kalidas was one of the bearers in disguise. Some
time mid-way the King asked the bearers if any of their shoulder was in pain.
His question in Sanskrit was “Taba Skandha BADHATI Kim? The reply was
retorted as “Mama Skandha Na BADHATE Rajan, Taba ‘BADHATI’
Badhate’.Meaning : My shoulder is not paining, your ‘Badhati’ (a
grammatical mistake) pains me. Vikramaditya exclaimed the bearer could be
no other than Kalidas. Journey halted, he embraced Kalidas. In such a
predicament what would be the pain of Sri Krishna in the context of Mr. B is
anybody’s guess.

This is made explicitly clear that the entire Chapter “Travesty of Truth” is the
outcome of Mr.B’s self-proclaimed greatness denouncing others on absolutely
untenable ground in utter abuse of grace bestowed on him by God for his
devotion with a clarity of mind, sobriety and charity of heart in his last life
coming under “Partha Naibeha Namutra…….” (Gita.Chap.6 Vr.40).

Jie Kali Sie Banamali:

This is what the conception of men of uninterrupted faith. , meaning Krishna

is Goddess Kali as also demonstrated in the midnight when Gopis lured by the
tune of flute.rushed to meet Sri Krishna. Patriachally dominant malefolk
used to chase the Gopis even reaching the spot where they would see
Goddess Kali on the stage instead of Sri Krishna whom they could catch red
handed. Frustrated red-faced, they would return home utterly disappointed.

Legacy percolated down to Sri Jagannath, the manifest of Sri Krishna – “Bhuje
sabye benu shirashi sikhi puchham katiitate, Dukulam netrante
sahacharakatakhyam bidadhate. Sada Srimad Brundabana basati leela
parichayo, Jagannatha Swamy nayana pathagami Bhabatu Mae” as
perceived by Adi Shankaracharya

.Accordingly, antiquity reveals that Sri Jagannath is Mahakali. Staunch Shakta

Brahmins were not recognising Jagannath Bhog offered in Bhairaba Mantra
as Mahaprasad. This bhog comprised among others coconut water in Kansya
Patra (bellmetal) representing wine and Biri and ada Pitha symbolizing meat

92
(non-veg) as normally offered to Goddess Kali under Tantrik
(Shabar)worship.As per Kalika Purana, the Uddyan Pith contemplates
Udreswari Shiba, Katyayani and Udreshri Jagannath. On the other hand, the
Bruhannila Tantra recognizes Sri Khetra as Tantra Pith and in four corners of
Srimandira are Astashambhu and Astashakti.Besides this the Tantrik Devis
are being worshipped in Srimandira as Kutamchandi, Alamachandi,
Mashanichandi, Harachandi,.Batamangala, Dakhinakali, Khambabimala etc.
in Autumn Saradiya Puja.

As per’Kularnaba Tantra’ Jagannath temple (Srimandira) stands on

SRIYANTRA on the central point of which is Ratna
Simhasana.Saptabarana.The Pujashali before Sri Jagannath is on Bhairabi
Chakra. The Saradiya Sholapuja(Autumn DurgaPuja) in Srimandira is
performed by Shrotriya Brahmins invited by Temple Administration. On
Saptapuri Amabasya AgyanMala from SriJagannath and Dakhinakali come to
Roshasala (Kitchen) of Srimandira. Dakhinakali is worshipped in one Stambha
in Jagamohan.At different places in the compound Devis,namely, Bimala,
Barahi,Narasinhi and Bhubaneswari are installed and worshipped. Sri
Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra are respectively synnonimous with
Mahakali Mahalaxmi and Maha Saraswati, the Devis of Pratham Charita,
Madhyama Charita and Uttara Charita of Shapta Shati Chandi as per Tantra
Shastra.The Trinity represent the Gunas i.e.Satwah, Rajah and Tamah
according as their body colour syncronises. With this philosophy, Sri
Jagannath being of blackcolour possesses Tamah Guna, Subhadra with yellow
colour possesses Rajah Guna while Balabhadra with white colour is of Satwah
Guna. Thus Sri Jagannath is on Bhairaba Chakra sheltering Ashta Devi known
as Ashta Kali on Ashta Dala Pakhuda (leaves).

What could be the rationale behind this philosophy? The simple answer to this
may be ’All in One’. Sarba Deba namaskara Keshabam Pratigachhati – Be it
Hindu,Budha,Jain. Sikh, Ishai,Islam,Christian et al within the ambit of “Ye
Yatha mam Prapadyante Tam stateiba Bhajamyaham”(Gita Chap.4 Vr.11).
This is what the Mahaprabhu Sri Jagannath is for the entire world. It is only
the unscrupulous social, political and even religious leaders - not less than

93
monsters – dilute implicit faith or induct divisive faith in godhood to meet
their insatiable selfish ends although driven towards doom’s day.

Intricacies of Yantra,Tantra, Mantra:

As already stated Sri Jagannath is all in one and all prostrations go to Him.
But the efficaciousness largely depends on devotional intricacy which, for
Hindus, is understood in Mantra, Yantra and Tantra. Mantra goes in the
simplest way of Puja, Bhajan, Kirtan. Yantra or Chakra is prescribed in which
devotion is deepened next below Nirakara ‘OM’ and above Sakara (Idol seba
puja). Saptashati Chandi is the ocean from which Shakti (Goddess) is invoked
in Yantra or Ckakra in various ways including one as under :

“ Shrividyam Shiva Bamabhaganilayam Hrinkara Mantrojwalam,

Srichakrankita Bindu Madhyabasatim Sri Matchhyabha Nayikim, Shrimad
Sanmukha Bighnaraja Jananim Shrimad Jaganmohinim , Minakshi
Pranatoshmi Santatamaham Karunya Baranidhim”(Minakshi Pancha
Tantram).

Tantra is the mode of prayer in Yantra in which the Tantriks are well versed.
This also goes to Jagannath as Mahakali. More than Mantra, Tantra has
intrinsic value encompassing God’s illusions like “ Daibihyesha Gunamayee
Mama maya Durataya ..” (vrs. 14) and “ Naham Prakashah Sarbasya Yoga
maya Samabrutah” (Vrs,25) Chapter 7, Bhagabat Gita Tantra is accordingly
more effective in imancipation and welfare of mankind realized by honest
Tantriks.. But unfortunately the mischievous and greedy Tantriks make wrong
use of tantram with strenuous efforts causing immense harm to Society and
thus fall within the mischief of Chap.17,Vrs.19, Bhagabat Gita running as
under:

“ Mudhagrahenatmano Yatpidaya Kriyate Tapah, Parasyotsadanartham

ba Tattamasamudahrutam”.

Any way, the elucidation rendered with respect to Yantra, Tantra Mantra is
based on the philosophy arising out of the basic fact that Tantra (Chakra) is
placed in Srimandira and bhog is offered to Sri Jagannath on the efficacious
Bhairabi Mantra superior to Mantra.

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Theology Vrs. Technology:

In this Kali Yug Ethics has been shifted to back bench not for ignorance but
due to arrogance. Poor people normally deprived of higher education or
modern amenities go the simple way that pleases the Almighty most. As such
they are rich in Ethics with staunch faith in God. People educated in Science
sparingly dither while pseudo religious bigots flutter in Theology some of
whom pose Self-styled Gods to spread their notorious kingdom. This middle
group, namely Scientists and Technocrats, not for pride but apparently owing
to misconception convey wrong messages eroding faith and dissuading
common man from time immemorial spiritual practices, even when good faith
pulverizes transe possession (Spirit) not tainted by Sorcery.

Take for example the occasions of lunar eclipse or solar eclipse. People as per
shastric advice keep stomach empty by skipping normal food during eclipse.
Science has developed enabling people see new events not seen by them
earlier. This they can do with their age old religious practice and without
frustrating the purpose of developed science thus leaving no nrcessity for
any technocrat to criticize or detract people from religious faith born out of
Theology. Suffice it to say, Theology is the master of Technology as is
glaringly evident from the innovation of the Pushpak Biman used by Kuber,
Ravan or Ramachandra. Surely it is not unknown to scientists of Hindu
Society. Such Scientists are therefore advised to desist from going away from
their own heritage rich in theological practice, the result of which is the
coming of such scientists to Earth. They may, at their option, learn from
eminent poet and philosopher Bernard Shaw, an English Chistrian, saying his
stomach was not the grave yard for dead animals and thus he became a
vegetarian. Nevertheless, any contempt to Theology runs the risk of -

“Mlechha Nibaha Nidhane KalayasiKarabalam Dhumaketumiba Kimapi

Karalam Keshaba Dhruta KALKI Sharira Jaya Jagadisha Harae”.

The author now with folded hands prays to one and all to pardon him for
mistakes, if any, committed by him and join him to pray in chorus

.JAYA JAGANNATH

The humble Author.

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