More than 20 heritage enthusiasts from across the State today explored the distinctive “mutt” tradition of the Holy City under the fifth Puri Heritage Walks (PHW) titled “Mahodadhi Monastic Trail: Exploration of sites related to the legacy of Shankaracharya Mutt & Purana Nahar of Puri Gajapati”.
“Mutt” or monastic culture is a distinctive tradition woven into the religious fabric of the pilgrim town. While the religious institutions foster religious curiosity and contribute to the spiritual ecosystem, many are also associated with various services of the Jagannath Temple. The event provided a captivating insight into Puri’s rich monastic culture, which has influenced the Holy City’s religious and socio-cultural landscape for centuries.
The walk commenced at the Radha-Kanta Matha (Gambhira) and concluded at the Gopala Teertha Matha, taking the participants on a journey through time, exploring the sacred monasteries that have been central to the spiritual heart of Puri, or Purushottama Kshetra, for more than 1,300 years. Renowned for their ties to the Trinity (Lord Balabhadra, Lord Jagannath, and Goddess Subhadra), these mutts serve not only as religious centres but also play a significant role in the festivals of the Jagannath Temple.
Historian and researcher on Jagannath culture Sarangadhara Rayguru, along with senior PHW member and researcher Devi Prasanna Nanda and heritage expert Sidharth Acharya, Kumar Aurojyoti, Arpan Gourav Dash and Biswaranjan Dehury led the participants through the intricate narratives and rituals associated with these monastic and religious institutions, which trace their origins back to the 10th-12th Century AD. Sidharth Acharya highlighted how the mutts and temples, particularly during the festivals associated with the Jagannath Temple, have become a magnet for devotees from all parts of India and hold the essence of the monastic traditions of Puri.
The walk covered a variety of important mutts and temples, including the Jeeyaar Swami “Mutt”, Gopala Teertha “Mutt”, Shiva Teertha “Mutt”, Asthashambhu Temple, and Shyama Kali Temple, offering the participants a rich tapestry of religious and cultural insights.
As part of PHW’s ongoing mission to revive the ancient spiritual narratives tied to Puri’s monastic and temple heritage, the walk was a deep dive into the historic legacy of Puri as they play a pivotal role in shaping the identity and genesis of the Holy City, and their continuing influence in the lives of pilgrims.
