[Solved] Jagannath Temple vs Shiva Temples | Hindu Pilgrimage

Name the holy place in which the main God is different from other three?

[U.P. Lower Sub. (Pre) 2002]

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Correct Option: B

Jagannath (Puri) is dedicated to Lord Vishnu/Krishna, while Amarnath, Kedarnath, and Vishwanath are all dedicated to Lord Shiva.

A. Amarnath

B. Jagannath

C. Kedarnath

D. Vishwanath

Analysis & Evidence

Concept

Major Hindu pilgrimage sites (Teerthas) are often categorized by their presiding deity, primarily Shiva (Shaivism) or Vishnu (Vaishnavism).

Authentic Source Evidence

Jagannath (Puri) is a form of Vishnu/Krishna. In contrast, Amarnath, Kedarnath, and Vishwanath are some of the most sacred sites dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Amarnath (J&K), Kedarnath (Uttarakhand), and Vishwanath (Varanasi) are all prominent Shiva shrines.

Logic 2: Jagannath (Odisha) represents the 'Lord of the Universe' as a form of Krishna, accompanied by Balabhadra and Subhadra. It has unique wooden idols, distinct from the stone Lingas of Shiva temples.

Historical Logic Quest

"What makes the Jagannath idols unique in Indian temple art?"

The idols are made of wood (Darubrahma) and are periodically replaced (Nabakalebara), unlike the permanent stone or metal idols found in most other temples.

The Topper's Edge

"The distinction between Jagannath and the other three highlights the major sectarian divide (Shaiva vs Vaishnava) in Indian devotional history."

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