In the sacred city of Puri, Odisha, where the divine presence of Lord Jagannath permeates every corner, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb stands as a symbol of tradition, spirituality, and service. Known by his regnal title, Gajapati Maharaja Divyasingha Deva IV, he is the titular King of Puri and the head of the historic Bhoi dynasty. As the revered Adhyasevaka (first and foremost servitor) of Lord Jagannath, his life is a remarkable blend of royal heritage, modern education, and unwavering devotion to the cultural and spiritual legacy of Odisha. This biography delves into the life, duties, and contributions of a man who embodies the timeless connection between royalty and divinity in one of India’s holiest cities.
Early Life and Ascension to the Throne
Born on February 6, 1953, as Jenamani Kamarnab Deb, Dibyasingha Deb was the eldest son of Gajapati Maharaja Birakishore Deb and Maharani Suryamani Pattamahadei. His family traces its lineage to the illustrious Bhoi dynasty, which has its roots in the Eastern Ganga dynasty and the rulers of the ancient Trikalinga region (encompassing Kalinga, Utkal, and Dakshin Koshala). The dynasty’s historical significance lies in its stewardship of the Shri Jagannath Temple, a spiritual epicenter for millions of devotees worldwide.
Tragedy struck the young Kamarnab at the age of 17 when his father passed away during the Ratha Yatra festival in 1970. On July 7, 1970, in a poignant moment of destiny, he ascended the throne during one of the most sacred festivals in Puri, taking on the mantle of Gajapati Maharaja. His coronation, held amidst the grandeur of the Ratha Yatra, marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to serve Lord Jagannath and uphold the traditions of his ancestors.
Education and Global Perspective
Despite his royal responsibilities, Dibyasingha Deb pursued a modern education that equipped him with a global outlook. He began his schooling at the Convent School in Puri and later attended the prestigious Rajkumar College in Raipur, Chhattisgarh. His academic journey took him to St. Stephen’s College, Delhi, where he graduated in 1972. Demonstrating a keen interest in law, he pursued an LLB from the University of Delhi’s Law Faculty (1971–1975) and furthered his studies with an LLM from the Northwestern University School of Law in Chicago (1975–1976).
His time abroad, particularly in Chicago, temporarily kept him from performing the sacred Chhera Pahara ritual during the 1975–76 Ratha Yatra, a duty that involves the symbolic sweeping of the chariots with a golden-handled broom. In his absence, the Mudiratha servitor of the temple performed the ritual, underscoring the continuity of tradition even in exceptional circumstances. This blend of global education and adherence to cultural duties highlights the Maharaja’s ability to bridge modernity and tradition.
Role as the Adhyasevaka of Lord Jagannath
As the Gajapati Maharaja, Dibyasingha Deb holds the esteemed position of Adhyasevaka, the chief servitor of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. This role is not merely ceremonial but deeply spiritual, rooted in the belief that the Gajapati is a living reflection of Lord Jagannath himself. His most visible duty is the Chhera Pahara during the annual Ratha Yatra, where he sweeps the chariots with a golden broom and sprinkles sandalwood-scented water, symbolizing humility and devotion. This ritual is so integral to the festival that the chariots do not move until the Gajapati performs it, a tradition that underscores his indispensable role.
Beyond the Ratha Yatra, the Maharaja participates in numerous rituals, including Bahuda Jatra, Snana Jatra, and Pusyabhiseka. The Pusyabhiseka Niti, observed on the Pushya Nakshatra, is particularly significant, as it commemorates the Gajapati’s ascension to the throne with elaborate rituals like Baruna Puja, Panchadebata Puja, and the sacred thread ceremony (Paita Lagi). In 2025, the Rajyabhishek Niti was conducted at his residence in Puri, reaffirming his spiritual and cultural authority.
As the chairman of the Shri Jagannath Temple Managing Committee, established under the Shri Jagannath Temple Act of 1955, Dibyasingha Deb oversees the administration of the temple. His leadership ensures the smooth execution of festivals, maintenance of temple traditions, and the preservation of its sanctity. In 2023, he actively reviewed the progress of the Srimandir Parikrama Project, a heritage corridor initiative to enhance the temple’s surroundings, demonstrating his commitment to modernizing Puri’s spiritual infrastructure while preserving its heritage.
Personal Life and Family
On December 3, 1978, Dibyasingha Deb married Vinita Devi, the middle daughter of Lt. Colonel Ananta Singh Charak of Jammu. Upon marriage, she took the title of Maharani Leelavati Pattamahadei, in keeping with tradition. The couple has four daughters but no sons, which has sparked discussions about the succession of the Puri throne. While no official decision has been announced, the absence of a male heir has not diminished the Maharaja’s dedication to his duties.
The Gajapati and his family lead a life of simplicity and devotion, often staying out of the public eye except during major festivals or events. In 2020, following a trip to the United States, the Maharaja and his family registered on Odisha’s COVID-19 portal and underwent home quarantine, setting an example of civic responsibility during the pandemic.
Contributions to Culture and Society
Dibyasingha Deb’s contributions extend beyond the temple’s precincts. He has been a vocal advocate for preserving the sanctity of Puri as the moola peetha (primary seat) of Lord Jagannath. In 2025, he urged the authorities of a Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, to refrain from using terms like “Jagannath Dham” or “Purushottama Kshetra,” emphasizing that these names are exclusive to Puri. Citing sacred scriptures like the Skanda Purana and Padma Purana, he reinforced Puri’s unique spiritual identity and the importance of maintaining traditional practices, such as worshipping the deities in their wooden (daru) form rather than stone or metal.
His commitment to Odisha’s cultural heritage is also evident in his participation in national events. In 2024, he and Maharani Leelavati attended the Ram Mandir Pran Pratishtha ceremony in Ayodhya, reflecting his role as a cultural ambassador connecting Odisha’s traditions with broader Hindu practices.
The Maharaja’s interests in photography and reading complement his spiritual duties, offering a glimpse into his multifaceted personality. His reserved nature and dedication to service have earned him respect as a “king without a kingdom,” whose authority lies in his spiritual and cultural stewardship rather than political power.
A Legacy of Service
Celebrating over 50 years of kingship in 2020, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb’s reign is a testament to his unwavering commitment to Lord Jagannath and the people of Odisha. His journey from a young prince thrust into responsibility at 17 to a revered spiritual leader reflects a life dedicated to upholding dharma. Despite the abolition of monarchy in India, the Gajapati’s role remains a powerful symbol of continuity, bridging the ancient legacy of the Bhoi dynasty with the demands of a modern world.
His leadership in the Jagannath Temple, advocacy for cultural preservation, and active participation in civic duties such as casting his vote in the 2024 elections alongside Maharani Leelavati demonstrate a ruler who is both a guardian of tradition and a responsible citizen. As Puri continues to thrive as a global spiritual destination, Dibyasingha Deb’s legacy as the servant of Lord Jagannath ensures that the sacred traditions of Odisha endure for generations to come.