The English word that originated from the Puri Jagannath Temple

One of the most famous temples in India, the 12th century Puri Jagannath Temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath (Krishna), perhaps has the rare honour of contributing to the English vocabulary. Juggernaut, meaning giant slow-moving machinery, came from the huge temple chariots of the Jagannath temple, which are drawn through the streets during the spectacular annual chariot or Rath Yatra festival. At the festival, idols of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra and Goddess Subhadra, the main deities of Srimandir, are taken to the Gundicha temple in bejeweled chariots and then brought back amidst great peagentry.

Located around 60 km from Odisha’s capital city of Bhubaneswar, the foundation stone of this temple was laid by Raja Ananta Varman Chodaganga Dev. The legend suggests that King Indradyumna saw Lord Jagannath in his dream and as per the lord’s wish constructed the temple.

The temple draws devotees and and tourists from around the world for its architectural splendour The pillars that support the temple are adorned with pictures depicting the life of Lord Krishna.