Socio-ecological perspective and ethnobotanical significance of timber-yielding plants in the ritual practices of Jagannath temple, Puri, India

Background The ritual and cultural practices observed at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, India, exhibit a foundation in systematic, empirically informed principles; however, they remain insufficiently investigated and inadequately documented within scholarly discourse. This investigation systematically identifies, documents, and evaluates the ethnobotanical and socio-ecological significance of timber-yielding plant species used in the rites and rituals associated with Lord Jagannath. Specifically, the study records all durable woods utilized in the construction of the deities’ bodies, ceremonial chariots, and other vehicles used during cultural functions, while also analyzing the underlying rationale for their selection and use. Methods Comprehensive ethnobotanical data on the ritual applications of diverse plant species were collected within the temple premises through interviews with servitors engaged in various ritual services. In addition, extensive fieldwork was conducted across the Puri district to corroborate and expand upon these findings. A total of 155 informants participated in this study. Results In total, 29 woody species representing 17 families and 26 genera were documented. These taxa are employed in the construction of divine idols, ritual chariots, and other sacred instruments associated with the deities, and the modes of their use are unique. Among plant parts, stems are most frequently utilized due to their strength and durability, making them particularly suitable for crafting ritual accessories. Woods from the Combretaceae and Fabaceae families are predominantly used in chariot preparation, whereas the bodies of the deities are traditionally created from the Neem plant ( Azadirachta indica A.Juss.). Conclusion The findings of this study provide a foundational framework for understanding the role of specific plant species in the sacred rituals of the Jagannath Temple. Furthermore, they highlight the socio-ecological importance of these botanicals and emphasize the need for conservation and reforestation initiatives to ensure sustainable use, given their recurrent application in temple rites.