The Universality of Lord Jagannåtha: From Theory to Practice: Journal of Vaishnava Studies

Abstract

The issue of birth prejudice in gaining access to the temple of Lord Jagannath at Puri is controversial and sensitive, and it necessarily arises from time to time. Yet it inevitably falls on deaf ears when brought before temple management. “Age-old traditions cannot be
changed,” is their consistent reply.
This is a subject heavily laden with misinformation and misconception, and with more than a tinge of inconsistency between theory and practice: the universality of Jagannath is so often praised in words and de­nied in actions by the very people who consider themselves the guardians of his faith.