Why Is Ekadashi Still Hung Upside Down in Jagannath Puri ? – The Divine Mystery of Lord Jagannath

Introduction
Jagannath Puri, located in Odisha, is not only one of the four sacred Dhams of India but also a land of countless mysteries and divine miracles. It is believed that the mere दर्शन (darshan) of Lord Jagannath has the power to transform one’s destiny and even improve the planetary positions in one’s horoscope.
Among the many fascinating traditions of this holy land, one mystery continues to surprise devotees even today.

Why is Ekadashi considered “upside down” in Jagannath Puri?

The Unique Tradition of Ekadashi in Jagannath Puri

Across India, Ekadashi is observed as a highly sacred fasting day. On this day, grains and especially rice are strictly prohibited, and devotees observe fasts for spiritual purification.
However, Jagannath Puri follows a completely different and astonishing tradition.
Here —

• On Ekadashi, rice is offered to Lord Jagannath.
  
• Devotees receive rice as Mahaprasad.
  
• Consuming rice on Ekadashi is not considered sinful here.
  

This is because in Jagannath Puri, Ekadashi is believed to be “reversed” or “hung upside down.”

The Ancient Legend Behind the “Upside Down Ekadashi”

According to a sacred legend, once Lord Brahma came to Jagannath Puri to receive the divine Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath. But by the time he arrived, all the prasad had already been distributed.
Only a few stale rice grains remained on a leaf, which a dog was licking.
Such was the purity of Brahma’s devotion that he sat beside the dog and began eating the remaining rice without hesitation.

When Ekadashi Objected and the Lord Appeared

At that very moment, Goddess Ekadashi appeared and questioned Brahma — “Today is Ekadashi. How can you consume rice on this sacred day?” Instantly, Lord Jagannath Himself manifested there and declared —
“Where there is true devotion, no rigid rule applies.”

The Lord then announced that —

• His Mahaprasad would never be bound by fasting rules.
  
• In His abode, devotion would always be greater than rituals.
  

At that divine moment, Lord Jagannath symbolically hung Ekadashi upside down behind the temple.

This Divine Tradition Continues Even Today

Since that sacred day —

• Rice consumption on Ekadashi in Puri is permitted.
  
• It is accepted as Mahaprasad with devotion.
  
• The will of Lord Jagannath takes precedence over calendar rules.
  

Here, God Himself decides the law of Dharma.

Spiritual Meaning of This Mystery

This divine tradition teaches a profound spiritual lesson —

• Devotion is greater than rigid discipline.
  
• God values purity of heart more than ritual accuracy.
  
• Where divine grace flows, rules naturally transform.
  

Conclusion

The mystery of the “upside down Ekadashi” in Jagannath Puri is not merely a tradition, but a living symbol of Sanatan Dharma’s spiritual depth. It reveals that for Lord Jagannath, the highest Dharma is pure devotion.
Even today, millions of devotees follow this sacred practice with unwavering faith, believing that — Where Lord Jagannath resides, His divine will becomes the ultimate law.

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