Chhappan Bhog - The Divine 56 Offerings of Mahaprasad to Lord JagannathThe Chhappan Bhog, meaning "56 offerings," is a sacred and elaborate spread of vegetarian dishes offered as Mahaprasad to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha. Deeply rooted in tradition and spiritual symbolism, this offering is not merely a meal-it is a divine ritual celebrating devotion, abundance, and the bounty of Mother Earth.These 56 items are meticulously prepared in the temple's unique clay-pot kitchen, the world's largest wood-fired kitchen, using traditional methods, without onion or garlic. The food is first offered to Lord Jagannath and only thenserved to devotees as Mahaprasad, which is believed to carry the blessings of the deities.The number 56 holds sacred significance: According to legend, Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Jagannath, fasted for six days after lifting the Govardhan Hill, and was later offered eight meals daily by devotees for seven days, totaling 56 meals.The Chhappan Bhog features an impressive variety of: Rice preparations (like Ghee Anna, Kanika, Dahi Pakhala)Dal and pulses (such as Biri Dali and Muga Dali)Vegetable curries (like Mahura and Besara)Leafy green dishes (such as Saga Bhaja and Saga Moonga)Milk-based sweets (like Rasabali, Chhena Poda, and Mitha Dahi)Fried snacks (like Kanti, Kadali Bhaja, and Jhunjia)Chutneys and pickles (like Amba Khatta and Khata)Unique temple delicacies (like Tanka Torani and Khai)Each dish is infused with spiritual sanctity and culinary wisdom, showcasing the flavors of Odisha and India's rich temple food heritage. Chhappan Bhog is not just a feast-it is an offering of love, devotion, and eternal gratitude to the divine. Chef kaniska