The Divine Sister of Jagannātha and Baladeva
Between Lord Jagannātha and Lord Baladeva sits Śrīmatī Subhadrā Devī, Their divine sister. Subhadrā is a beloved and important personality in the traditions of Krishna worship.
Her presence together with Jagannātha and Baladeva forms one of the most distinctive and beautiful expressions of Vaishnava worship.
The Divine Family
The three Deities are often understood through Their intimate relationship:
Jagannātha — Krishna
Baladeva — Balarāma
Subhadrā — Their divine sister
Their worship reminds us that spiritual life is ultimately about relationships. Krishna is not an impersonal force. He is a Supreme Person who eternally exchanges loving relationships with His devotees.
Subhadrā's Mercy
Śrīmatī Subhadrā Devī is worshipped as a compassionate divine personality who assists in granting the Lord's mercy. Her presence on the altar reminds us that the path of bhakti is open to everyone.
The devotee does not approach Krishna through material qualifications such as wealth, education, social position or status. The essential qualification is sincerity.
The Three Deities
When devotees stand before Jagannātha, Baladeva and Subhadrā, they are reminded of the extraordinary spiritual relationships surrounding Krishna.
Their distinctive forms invite us to put aside superficial differences and approach the Lord with an open heart.
At New Jagannath Puri Temple, we invite everyone to come and receive Their darśana