Q. Who is Jagannatha?

Lord Jagannath is a very special and merciful form of Lord Krishna. The word "Jagannatha" means "Lord of the Universe." He is always in company with his brother Lord Balaram and his sister Lady Subhadra.

Q. How does Jagannatha appear?

There are two causes for his unique appearance. First is the story of how Krishna appeared to King Indradyuma and ordered him to carve a deity from a log he would find washed up on the sea shore.
King Indradruma found an old brahmin carpenter to carve the deity, but the carpenter insisted that he not be disturbed while he was carving the deity.
The king waited anxiously outside his room, but after some time, all sound stopped.
Indradyumna worried what had happened, and opened the doors - to find a half-finished deity and the carpenter gone!
The second reason for Lord Jagannatha's appearance is the story of how Krishna was eavesdropping on the gopis as they spoke amongst themselves of His pastimes. And of how much they loved him.
As Krishna listened, His hairs stood on end, His arms retracted, His eyes grew larger and larger and He smiled broadly in ecstacy. That is why Jagannatha looks as He does. With great big round eyes and a huge smile from ear to ear.

Q. How can I take a part in helping the festival to be a success?

You can come and join in!

Would you like to enjoy serving Jagannatha even more? The festival is only possible by the selfless assistance of many volunteers - more details here.

Also you can donate to festival here.

Jaya Jagannatha!