Book Review - Jagannath - Stories of Faith and Devotion by Smita Das Jain


When I started reading this book, I had a lot of ideas to write a good review. But now that I have finished reading it, my finger tips hover above the screen, searching for words that prove inadequate.

What can you really write about a book that took you on an unforgettable and devotional roller-coaster ride?!

Lord Jagannath has fascinated humankind since ages and this book brings him alive in a beautiful way. The book is divided into six parts, sharing narratives about the origin of the legend of the deity, the creation of the temple, the beautiful relationship between the three siblings - Balabhadra, Subhadra and Jagannath, miracles and spiritual experiences of people, folk tales and tribal legends and finally the mystical experience of the Rath Yatra.

Every part of the narrative resonates with faith and devotion. The author has presented the stories in such a way that every generation reading them will be able to relate to the stories. The narrative is calming and soothing to read. Many times I found a lump in my throat, brought by the sheer beauty of a scene or a hard-hitting insight.

Jagannath ceases to be an unreachable God and becomes a presence who will stay with you throughout the book. I have always been fascinated with him and this book has taken my fascination and adoration to a whole new level. In fact, just after reading a few chapters, I started looking for the next holiday so that I can book a trip to Puri. I am sure most of you will feel so too!

I got a beautiful virtual tour of the Rath Yatra through this book. Just reading about it was a mystical and spiritual experience.

I can probably go on and on but words will not be adequate to describe my experience of reading this book. All I can say is, this book is a must-read, specially in the chaotic times that we are living now. It is a reminder of the presence of a higher power, about the healing power of faith and the grace that comes through devotion. Read it for Jagannath, and feel his presence beside you as you read!

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