No one expects a god known for strength powerful enough to lift mountains, leap across oceans, and command celestial forces to ever be restrained. Yet, near the grand and sacred premises of the Jagannath Temple in Puri, a curious sight challenges belief—Lord Hanuman bound by iron chains. The image is startling, almost contradictory. How could the undefeatable warrior of Ramayana, the one who burned Lanka and carried the Sanjeevani mountain, ever need to be tied down?
One of the most popular legends explaining this unusual sight tells of a time when Lord Hanuman was assigned an important duty—guarding the sacred shores of Puri and ensuring that the raging ocean waves never disturbed the holy land or the Jagannath Temple. With unmatched strength and devotion, Hanuman stood watch, ensuring peace and calm.
However, one night, a powerful emotion stirred within him—an overwhelming longing to see Lord Ram in Ayodhya. For Hanuman, whose devotion for Ram is eternal and unconditional, no force could hold him back. Without hesitation and without informing anyone, he flew across the skies to Ayodhya, lost in love and devotion.
But his absence unleashed chaos.
Massive waves crashed into Puri, disturbing the temple and the people living near the shores. When Lord Jagannath noticed the disturbance and asked where the guardian was, the priests informed him about Hanuman’s sudden departure. Angered yet understanding his devotion, Jagannath summoned Hanuman back immediately.
To ensure his duty was never neglected again, Lord Jagannath ordered him to be chained—not as punishment, but as a divine reminder of responsibility. It is believed that the idol at Bedi Hanuman Temple represents this sacred moment: the mighty warrior bound by love, duty, and humility.
Another powerful legend tells a slightly different tale. This version begins with Varuna Dev, the God of the Sea, who deeply wished to visit Lord Jagannath. But every time he tried, his enormous waves threatened the peace of Puri. Since Lord Hanuman was tasked with safeguarding the coast, he constantly stopped Varuna Dev from approaching the city.
One day, Varuna Dev used wisdom instead of force. He approached Hanuman and questioned him gently:
Countless pilgrims visit Puri and receive the blessing of Lord Jagannath. You guard this place tirelessly, day and night—but have you ever gazed upon Him with your own eyes?”
The words struck Hanuman deeply. For a moment, the guardian became the devotee once again. Drawn by longing, he left his post and walked toward the sacred temple—unaware that Varuna Dev was following closely behind.
The waves surged forward, flooding the area and disrupting the city. Lord Jagannath saw what had happened and understood that Hanuman’s heart had acted before his duty. Yet instead of anger, he chose a lesson: he instructed Hanuman to bind himself with chains so he would never again abandon his sacred responsibility.
Today, the sight of Lord Hanuman in chains at Bedi Hanuman Temple is not a symbol of weakness—but of cosmic purpose. The chains signify loyalty, restraint, and unwavering devotion. They remind devotees that even the strongest beings may choose discipline over freedom for a higher cause.
For visitors, the moment is unforgettable:
A god who could snap iron with a thought—yet remains bound because of love, duty, and divine promise.
And in that silent, chained form lies a powerful truth:
Sometimes the greatest strength is not in breaking boundaries—but in honoring them.
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