The temple where Lord Hanuman is tied in iron chains

Lord Hanuman, a devoted disciple of Lord Ram, holds a special place in people’s hearts. And one thing to note is that Lord Hanuman’s name generally only comes up during incidents of the Ramayana and he played a major role throughout the epic. It is either for his valour, or his devotion. And so, it is difficult to imagine Lord Hanuman in a situation outside of the Ramayana.
But, did you know that Lord Hanuman also has a connection with Lord Jagannath? In fact, Lord Hanuman is in service of Lord Jagannath just like Lord Ram’s!

The Jagannath Temple in Puri is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus. It is dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple and Lord Jagannath are famous and sacred for many reasons. The mysteries that surround the temple, the large eyes of Lord Jagannath, thr Rath Yatra that sees millions of people, and so much more.
The Jagannath temple in Puri is a site of great devotion and love where everyone is equal in the eyes of the God.

Now, apart from Lord Jagannath and his mysteries and miracles, there is another mysterious temple in Puri. This temple is of Lord Hanuman, and over there Lord Hanuman is depicted in chains, and called Bedi Hanuman. The term ‘Bedi’ means chains, which is a symbol of restraint. This depiction of Lord Hanuman is quite unusual, considering that he is extremely powerful.

(Image: SavyySavi/X)

In that temple and around, Lord Hanuman is also known as Dariya Mahavir. ‘Dariya’ means sea, and this name stems from Lord Hanuman's role in protecting the Jagannath Temple from the waves of the ocean. According to the legend, the Puri temple’s location near the Bay of Bengal meant it was constantly threatened by the sea. And so, Lord Hanuman, known for his immense strength was tasked with guarding the temple and ensuring the safety of all.
So, why did they have to chain Lord Hanuman? Read on to know.

One of the most popular stories as to why Lord Hanuman was chained explains that one time when Lord Hanuman was guarding the gates of Puri from the tumultuous waves of the ocean. But, all of a sudden, he had this immense desire to go to Ayodhya and see Lord Ram. And as his love for Lord Ram knows no bounds, Hanuman ji immediately flew off to Ayodhya without informing anyone!
And it was at that night that huge waves crashed through the temple and disturbed people living near it. When Lord Jagannath asked where Lord Hanuman was, he was informed about the sudden trip to Ayodhya which angered him and he was called back immediately.
It was then that Lord Jagannath chained him so that he does not leave his spot and guard the city with full attention.

Another famous story of how Lord Hanuman became Bedi Hanuman in Puri is when Varuna Dev, the God of the Sea, wanted to visit Lord Jagannath. But, whenever he tried to look at him, the huge sea waves came with him. As Lord Hanuman was tasked with protecting the city from the sea, he always denied Varuna dev from visiting Lord Jagannath.
But one day, the Ocean God deceived Lord Hanuman by saying that everyone sees Lord Jagannath and you are always standing here, don't you wish to see him?
Influenced by his words, Lord Hanuman walked away from his spot, towards the temple, and with him came Varuna Dev along with waves and destruction. Angered by Lord Hanuman not fulfilling his duty, Lord Jagannath asked Lord Hanuman to chain himself to the spot so that he never leaves his position and forever guards the people and the Lord himself.