Introduction:

This January i was in the holy city Puri for a family function. I decided to run across the city and feel the spirituality. Commencing my journey of both miles and memories, never thought it will turn out to be an enchanting experience. Sharing  my  experience in this writeup.

Blue Flag Beach:

Starting my run from the picturesque Blue Flag Beach Puri, the rhythmic waves of the Bay of Bengal set the tone for my Tata Mumbai virtual half marathon. The well-maintained beach with its walking tracks and vigilant lifeguards provided a serene backdrop to the beginning of my sacred exploration.

Statue of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu:

Running along the beach road, I encountered the stoic statue of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, a revered saint from Bengal who spread the chants of Hare Krishna. The statue stood tall, symbolizing the rich spiritual heritage of Puri and its connection with the Bengali culture.

Swargadwara:

As I jogged along the beach road, the ethereal presence of Swargadwara, the Gateway to Heaven, unfolded before me. This sacred cremation ground holds profound significance, believed by many to be one of the most auspicious mortuary sites in the country. The general belief, deeply rooted in faith, is that those cremated here find their way to heaven, attaining ultimate salvation. As I ran past this divine place, memories flooded back – memories of accompanying departed souls on their final journey. The whispers of scriptures echoed in the air, recounting the mystical journey of the Daru Brahma, the sacred wood from which the deities of Lord Jagannath were carved, as it floated through the sea at Swargadwara. Each stride through this hallowed ground served as a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and the spiritual journey we all undertake.

Jagannath Temple:

Continuing the sacred run around the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri was an experience that transcended mere physical exercise. The temple, dedicated to Mahaprabhu Jagannath, his brother Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra, stands as a magnificent symbol of devotion, its deities intricately carved from wood and ceremoniously replaced every 12 or 19 years in the grand NabaKalebara celebration. As I approached the Singha Dwara ( the Lion Gate), I felt the spiritual aura intensify, knowing that beyond this threshold lay the sanctum sanctorum where Mahaprabhu Jagannath resides. The strict restrictions, barring cameras and non-Hindu devotees, underscored the exclusivity of this divine space. The sight of Patitapabana (Mahaprabhu Jagannath) at the dwara makes you to raise your hand to pray and close your eye in devotion for the almighty. The road across the singha dwara is the Bada Danda.  This has the historical significance of witnessing the majestic chariots carrying the deities to Mausi Maa Mandir during the auspicious Ratha Yatra every year.

The temple’s colossal kitchen, crafting delectable mahaprasad for millions, is a testament to culinary artistry, offering a divine treat for the taste buds.

The recent transformation, the Temple Parikrama Prakalpa (The Heritage Corridor) breathed new life into the surroundings, extending 75 meters beyond the Meghanada Pacheri (20 ft boundary wall surrounding the temple). This thoughtful expansion not only provides devotees with a spacious resting area and essential amenities but also preserves the sacred mathas that have stood the test of time. The Heritage Corridor stands as a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, enhancing the temple’s ambiance without compromising its sanctity and security. Running across this spiritual haven was not just a physical journey but a soulful exploration of the intricate tapestry of faith and tradition that adorns the timeless Jagannath Temple.

Mausi Ma Temple:

Running along the Bada Danda, the road connecting Jagannath Temple to Mausi Maa Temple (Gundicha Temple), I reminisced about childhood visits and professional service in Puri. The spiritual energy resonating from these holy grounds during the Ratha Yatra days was palpable, creating an emotional connect.

Batamangala:

Embarking on my run from Mausi Maa Temple towards Maa Batamangala Temple in Puri, little did I anticipate the delightful encounter awaiting me on the way. As my feet rhythmically kissed the sacred soil, I unexpectedly bumped into a school senior, now a resident of Puri, cruising on his bike. A warm reunion unfolded, proving once again that the world is indeed a small space. Continuing my journey, the Maa Batamangala Temple loomed ahead, revered as the gateway to the holy city of Puri. According to tradition, seeking the blessings of Maa Mangala before entering the sacred Lord Jagannath’s temple is a customary practice. I paused to pay my respects, absorbing the divine energy that enveloped the temple. With every step behind me, the spiritual essence of Puri coupled with the unexpected reunion with a friend transformed my run into a soulful exploration of camaraderie and devotion.

Conclusion:

With each step, I covered 25.5 km, not just achieving a running milestone but also delving into the soul of Puri. The city, beyond its renowned landmarks, unfolded as a story of spirituality and memories. This run wasn’t merely about distance, it was a journey through the holy city of Puri, a city where every corner echoed the divine heartbeat of Lord Jagannath.

 

Thank you for being a part of my journey!

Your engagement and feedback mean the world to me.

I’d love to hear your thoughts on this blog post.

Whether you have a comment, suggestion or a personal experience to share, your voice matters.

Feel free to drop your insights in the comment section below.