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The Jagannath Temple is a revered Hindu temple located in the city of Puri, in the eastern Indian state of Odisha. It is one of the Char Dham pilgrimage sites for Hindus and is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

The temple's history dates back to the 12th century when it was built by the Eastern Ganga Dynasty King, Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. The temple complex spans over an area of 400,000 square feet and is surrounded by a high wall. It has four entrance gates, each facing one of the four directions - north, south, east, and west.

The temple is renowned for its annual Rath Yatra, which is a grand festival celebrated during the months of June-July. During this festival, the deities Lord Jagannath, his brother Lord Balabhadra, and sister Subhadra are taken out of the temple in a procession on three magnificent chariots, pulled by devotees, through the streets of Puri. The festival attracts millions of pilgrims from all over the world.

The temple architecture is unique and has several distinct features. The main temple structure has a pyramid-shaped roof, known as the Vimana, which rises to a height of about 214 feet. The roof is made of copper plates and is adorned with a wheel-shaped symbol called the chakra, which is a prominent symbol in Hinduism.

Inside the temple, there are three main sanctums, known as the Garbhagriha, where the deities are housed. The central sanctum houses Lord Jagannath, while the sanctum to the right houses Lord Balabhadra, and the one to the left houses Goddess Subhadra. The deities are made of wood and are replaced every twelve years during a special ceremony called the Nabakalebara.

The temple is also known for its elaborate rituals and offerings. The deities are offered daily rituals, which include bathing, dressing, and feeding. The temple has a kitchen, which is said to be the largest in the world and can feed thousands of devotees every day. The food prepared in the temple is known as Mahaprasad and is considered sacred.

In conclusion, the Jagannath Temple is an iconic Hindu pilgrimage site and an architectural marvel. It is a testament to the rich cultural heritage and spiritual beliefs of the people of Odisha. The temple's unique architecture, elaborate rituals, and rich history make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian spirituality and culture.

The temple complex spans an area of over 400,000 square feet and is enclosed by a high wall with four entrance gates, each facing one of the four cardinal directions. The temple is believed to have been built in the 12th century by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva of the Eastern Ganga dynasty.