Sacred Complex of Orissa

Study of Three Major Aspects of the Sacred Complex

The Scared Complex of Orissa has had its origin and development, since time immemorial. Its evolution is traced back to different ancient dynasties. Later, it flourished under the partronage of the rulers of Solar dynasty and Gajapati Rajas of Orissa. As Puri has become the most important pilgrim centre, many Sadhus and Sanyasis visit it and have their own places of abode which have been developed into monasteries. With the growing ramification and elaboration in ritual services at the Jagannath Temple many ritual functionaries are appointed to serve Lord Jagannath. Thus, Puri has grown into a centre of Sacred Complex with its sacred institutions spread in its hinterland. In fact, the Scared Complex comprises the following: 1. Sacred Geography of Puri, 2. Gajapati Rajas and Lord Jagannath Temple, 3. Ritual functionaries 4. Monastic Order, 5. Brahmin Sasan Villages 6. Minor Rulers of Feudatory States, 7. Pilgrims, Public and Government. These aspects are closely related and dislocation in any of the them has severe repercussions throughout the whole nexus. This study of the Sacred Complex highlights the changes which have taken place in recent times and further, this study has implications for broader enquiries into some of the processes of secularization of modern Hinduism.