Preserving the Legacy: Unveiling the stories of Jagannath
how it started?
Since 1960
Shri Govinda Maharana, was born into a revered lineage of skilled carpenters. With his father serving as a Maharana Sevak at the sacred Jagannath Temple, diligently working on the chariot of the Lord, young Govinda was naturally drawn to this divine craft. Observing his father’s devotion, he was inspired to follow in his footsteps and nurture his own ambition to carve the idol of Lord Jagannath. At the tender age of 20, he began mastering the sacred art of idol carving, dedicating his life not only to the creation of these divine forms but also to the service of the Lord’s chariot. As time passed and age settled upon him, he gracefully retired from his duties in chariot service. Yet, with unwavering devotion, he pledged to continue carving the idol of Lord Jagannath for as long as life permitted.
The Continuance
Bansidhar Maharana, Govinda Maharana’s esteemed son-in-law, found his own inspiration in this legacy. Under the guidance of his father-in-law, he too embraced the divine art of carving the idol of Lord Jagannath. Over the years, Bansidhar honed his skills and became known for creating exquisite idols of Mahaprabhu in various places. For 22 years, he quietly devoted himself to this sacred craft, his works largely remaining a treasured secret within the Puri district.
Our Story
Our story begins with Ananta Maharana, a descendant of the divine Vishwakarma, entrusted with the sacred duty of crafting the massive chariots for the annual Ratha Yatra festival. This tradition of serving the Lord of the Universe has been passed down through three generations, each adding their own chapter to this remarkable story.
Today, we uphold the same values of devotion and meticulous craftsmanship. We see ourselves as facilitators, bringing Mahaprabhu into your homes, allowing you to welcome him with the same love and affection he bestows upon his devotees.
Meet the Founder
Ms. Namrata Priyadarshini Maharana, with a heart full of devotion,
stepped into the family’s sacred tradition after completing her education. From a young age,
she had shown a natural affinity for painting, which blossomed into a deeper spiritual calling.
Without formal training, she began creating delicate paintings of Mahaprabhu. Today,
blessed by the grace of Mahaprabhu, she transforms her devotion into art, painting beautiful
depictions of the Lord on neem wood, her skilled hands breathing life into the divine.
To bring her father’s sacred service to the wider world, Mrs. Namrata started Vishwakarma
Creations on a social media platform. This initiative is a heartfelt effort to bridge the divine
presence of Mahaprabhu with His devoted followers. The Maharana lineage, with its roots
tracing back to the divine architect Lord Vishwakarma, inspired the name of this
endeavor—Vishwakarma Creations. What began on Instagram as a small but sincere
offering has, through Mahaprabhu’s blessings and Namrata’s relentless dedication,
blossomed into a significant presence.
Ms. Namrata Priyadarshini Maharana, with a heart full of devotion, stepped into the family’s sacred tradition after completing her education. From a young age, she had shown a natural affinity for painting, which blossomed into a deeper spiritual calling. Without formal training, she began creating delicate paintings of Mahaprabhu. Today, blessed by the grace of Mahaprabhu, she transforms her devotion into art, painting beautiful depictions of the Lord on neem wood, her skilled hands breathing life into the divine.
To bring her father’s sacred service to the wider world, Mrs. Namrata started Vishwakarma Creations on a social media platform. This initiative is a heartfelt effort to bridge the divine presence of Mahaprabhu with His devoted followers. The Maharana lineage, with its roots tracing back to the divine architect Lord Vishwakarma, inspired the name of this endeavor—Vishwakarma Creations. What began on Instagram as a small but sincere offering has, through Mahaprabhu’s blessings and Namrata’s relentless dedication, blossomed into a significant presence.
The Saptabarana Tradition
The Saptabharana tradition is a sacred ritual that transforms an idol into a divine presence through seven symbolic layers: the Chacchi Patta representing life force, Sal wood resin and sesame oil paste symbolizing strength and support, Neta Patta representing life-giving energy, sandalwood, camphor, musk, and kumkum paste representing physical and spiritual attributes, Sweta Patta symbolizing purity, Khadwa paste shaping the idol’s form, and finally, the drawing of the divine likeness that breathes life into the idol.
The Saptabharana tradition is a sacred ritual that transforms an idol into a divine presence through seven symbolic layers: the Chacchi Patta representing life force, Sal wood resin and sesame oil paste symbolizing strength and support, Neta Patta representing life-giving energy, sandalwood, camphor, musk, and kumkum paste representing physical and spiritual attributes, Sweta Patta symbolizing purity, Khadwa paste shaping the idol’s form, and finally, the drawing of the divine likeness that breathes life into the idol.
The Art of Neem Murtis
Neem Murtis, intricately carved idols made from neem wood, are a unique aspect of Odia art and culture. Neem, a sacred tree with medicinal properties, is believed to ward off evil spirits. The artisans carefully select neem wood, shaping it into the desired form with traditional tools. Neem Murtis are known for their natural beauty, durability, and intricate details. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, they hold deep spiritual significance, believed to be imbued with the divine energy of the deities they represent.