ABOUT

About Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, New Delhi

Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, New Delhi, is a spiritual and cultural centre dedicated to Lord Jagannath and the traditions of Odisha. Established in 1968, the Mandir brings together religious activities, cultural preservation, education and community service. It welcomes devotees, visitors, artists and people interested in exploring the spiritual and cultural heritage of Odisha.

Located opposite Thyagraj Nagar Indoor Stadium, the Mandir is approximately 1 km from INA Metro Station. It is also accessible from Safdarjung Bus Terminal and Lodi Colony Ring Railway Station, making it convenient for visitors travelling from different parts of Delhi.

For devotees seeking a place of worship, Shri Jagannath Temple represents an opportunity to experience the traditions of Lord Jagannath in the heart of India’s capital. The Mandir also provides opportunities to participate in religious celebrations, explore Odisha’s traditional arts and contribute to community welfare activities.

Shri Jagannath Mandir and Odisha Arts & Cultural Centre

Shri Jagannath Mandir is managed by Shri Jagannath Mandir and Odisha Arts & Cultural Centre, New Delhi, a registered society established in 1968 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860. The society holds Registration Number 3853/1968.

The organisation was established with the objective of promoting spirituality, social welfare, education and Odisha’s cultural heritage. Alongside managing the religious activities of the Mandir, the society works towards preserving traditional art forms, encouraging emerging artists and supporting underprivileged sections of society.

Its main objectives include:

• Promoting social, cultural and educational development among members and the general public.
• Supporting disadvantaged and underprivileged communities through charitable initiatives.
• Organising cultural programmes to preserve and promote Odisha’s traditional arts, music and dance.
• Conducting health awareness programmes, medical check-up camps and blood donation camps.
• Organising workshops and competitions to encourage children’s creativity, moral values and spiritual development.

Through these activities, the society aims to create a meaningful connection between devotion, cultural learning and social responsibility.

Temple Architecture and Deities

The Mandir has been constructed in the traditional Odisha style of temple architecture, inspired by the design of the famous temple in Puri. Its architectural features reflect the religious traditions and heritage associated with Lord Jagannath.

The entrance features a Simhadwara, followed by 22 steps traditionally known as Baishi Pahacha, leading towards the Mukhashala. Inside the Garbhagriha, devotees can offer their prayers to the Chaturdha Deities:

• Shri Jagannath
• Shri Balabhadra
• Maa Subhadra
• Shri Sudarshan

The temple premises also include separate shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva, Navagraha, Lord Hanuman, Maa Bimala and Maa Laxmi.

Another important feature is the marble Aruna Stambha, situated in front of the Mukhashala. It reflects traditional practices associated with the worship of Lord Jagannath. The exterior of the main temple also features engraved representations of several Hindu deities, including Shri Varaha, Shri Narasimha and Shri Vamana.

Together, these architectural elements create a sacred environment that reflects Odisha’s temple traditions.

Anna Prasad and Traditional Odia Food

Anna Prasad is an important part of the religious and cultural traditions of the Mandir. Alongside the daily preparation of Bhog for the deities, the temple prepares food for devotees and visitors.

The Prasad Hall serves approximately 300 to 400 people daily. Food is prepared by experienced temple cooks under hygienic conditions, with careful supervision to maintain its quality and traditional flavour.

The menu includes traditional dishes inspired by the food traditions of Puri’s Jagannath Temple. Popular preparations include Ghaanta, Aloo Potala Rasa, Dahi Baigana, Dahi Vada, Paneer preparations, Aloo Gobi and seasonal vegetable dishes.

The food is prepared without onion and garlic, following traditional dietary practices. Special menu arrangements, including seasonal vegetables and selected dishes, can also be discussed for bulk bookings.

The Mandir also prepares traditional Odia sweets and snacks, including:

• Chhena Poda
• Odisha Rasagola
• Pheni
• Gaja
• Lavanga Lata
• Chhena Gaja
• Chum Chum
• Aloo Chop and traditional snacks

Chhena Poda and Rasagola have gained popularity among visitors in South Delhi. The society also works towards promoting traditional Odia food and culinary heritage through its Prasad services.

Food remaining after daily distribution is shared with people in need as part of the society’s community service efforts.

Dharamshala Accommodation for Devotees and Visitors

The Mandir provides Dharamshala accommodation for pilgrims, visitors and relatives of patients travelling to Delhi, particularly those visiting nearby medical institutions such as AIIMS.

The society has developed 18 rooms with housekeeping facilities to support a comfortable stay for guests arriving from different parts of the country.

These accommodation facilities are intended to assist people visiting the Mandir and those travelling to Delhi for religious, personal or medical purposes.

Visitors interested in accommodation can contact the Mandir management to enquire about room availability and booking arrangements.

Cultural Activities and Promotion of Odisha Heritage

Promoting Odisha’s rich cultural heritage is one of the major objectives of Shri Jagannath Mandir and Odisha Arts & Cultural Centre.

The society regularly organises cultural programmes that provide opportunities for established gurus, experienced performers and emerging artists to showcase their talents. These programmes also allow visitors to experience India’s classical and folk traditions.

The cultural activities include:

• Odissi classical dance
• Bharatanatyam
• Manipuri and Kathak
• Chhau and Sambalpuri folk dances
• Paala and Daskathia traditional performances
• Music programmes, cultural workshops and artistic events

Since 2012, the society has been actively organising cultural programmes during major celebrations, including the nine-day Rath Yatra Mahotsav in June and July, Kartik Poornima Mahotsav and the monthly Shri Jagannath Sanskrutika Samaroha, held on the second Saturday of each month.

These events help preserve traditional art forms, encourage young performers and introduce Odisha’s cultural heritage to a wider audience in Delhi.

Subhadra Kala Mandap and Library

The Mandir premises include dedicated facilities for cultural learning, research and community activities.

Subhadra Kala Mandap

Subhadra Kala Mandap is an auditorium-style facility developed to host cultural performances, festivals, workshops and other programmes. It has seating arrangements for approximately 200 to 250 people.

The facility also welcomes other organisations and societies interested in organising cultural programmes and suitable community events.

Library and Research Facilities

The society maintains a library with a collection of religious and cultural books. It is open to the public for reference and research purposes.

The library hall also serves as a venue for conferences, educational workshops and discussions. Facilities such as slide projection support presentations and learning activities.

These facilities provide opportunities for visitors, students, researchers and cultural enthusiasts to explore religious literature and Odisha’s heritage.

Prasad Halls for Social and Family Functions

Shri Jagannath Mandir provides Prasad Hall facilities for organising social and family occasions within the temple premises.

The renovated halls offer seating and dining arrangements for approximately 200 to 300 guests, depending on the event setup.

The facilities can be used for occasions such as:

• Marriage ceremonies and wedding receptions
• Engagement ceremonies
• Brataghara ceremonies
• Birthday celebrations
• Family gatherings and social functions

Anna Prasad and suitable food arrangements can also be discussed for bulk bookings and special occasions. Visitors can contact the Mandir management to understand the available arrangements and booking requirements.

Charitable Activities and Community Welfare

Social service and community welfare are important parts of the society’s work. Shri Jagannath Mandir and Odisha Arts & Cultural Centre undertakes various initiatives to support people in need and encourage community participation.

Free Health Check-up Camps

The society organises charitable health check-up camps on Sundays, providing free medical consultations and distributing medicines received through donations, subject to availability.

Blood Donation Camps

Blood donation camps are organised in collaboration with the Indian Red Cross to encourage voluntary blood donation and create awareness about its importance.

Narayan Seva

Under its Narayan Seva initiative, the society provides free meals to underprivileged children from nearby communities every Sunday.

Food Distribution and Community Service

The Mandir arranges Bhandara and free Anna Prasad distribution during religious festivals and special occasions, welcoming devotees and members of the public.

Relief During Natural Disasters

The society has also contributed relief materials, including food packets, candles and tarpaulins, for people affected by natural disasters such as floods, cyclones and earthquakes.

These initiatives reflect the organisation’s commitment to extending its service beyond the temple premises and supporting the wider community.

Our Commitment to Devotion, Culture and Social Service

Since its establishment in 1968, Shri Jagannath Mandir and Odisha Arts & Cultural Centre, New Delhi, has worked towards bringing people together through spirituality, cultural preservation and community welfare.

Its activities extend beyond daily worship to include traditional celebrations, artistic performances, educational opportunities, accommodation facilities, Anna Prasad services and charitable initiatives.

The society continues to encourage devotees, artists, cultural organisations, researchers and volunteers to participate in its activities and contribute to the preservation of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage.

Whether you wish to seek the blessings of Lord Jagannath, participate in Rath Yatra celebrations, experience traditional Odia culture, have Anna Prasad or support charitable initiatives, you are warmly welcome.

Visit Shri Jagannath Mandir, Thyagraj Nagar, New Delhi, and become part of a community that values devotion, tradition and service.