The Cult of Jagannatha: Myths and Rituals

by Jose Carlos Gomes da Silva

The Cult of Jagannatha: Myths and Rituals offers a new approach to Orissan ethnography. In sharp contrast with dominant explanations, centered on tribal influences and the history of organization, this book provides extensive evidence on the importance of religious orthodoxy. Vedic and Hindu sacrificial symbolism is at the core of the extremely rich mythical narratives and cult practices related to Puri's great temple.

Table of Contents:

• Acknowledgements
• Abbreviations
• List of Illustrations
• Preface
• Part I: The Beginning before the beginning
• Part II: From ritual to myth
• Part III: Reflected figures
• Part IV: From myth to ritual
• Bibliography
• Index.

About the Author:

Jose Carlos Gomes da Silva is Professsor of Anthropology at Lisbon University Institute. His writings reflect two major interests: The ethnography of Orissa, where he developed field research since 1979 and the epistemology and critique of anthropological thought.