Devotees revere each of the 22 steps leading up to the Jagannath Temple. However, the third step from the bottom carries a unique, and possibly ominous, significance. Religious legend claims that this step, known as Yamashila, serves as the dwelling place of Yamraj, the Hindu god of death. According to a well-known tradition, Yamraj once approached Lord Jagannath, troubled that fewer souls were reaching Yamlok (the land of the dead). Since devotees believed that merely seeing Lord Jagannath could save them from the afterlife journey, Yamraj feared the dwindling flow of souls to his realm.

According to the sources, when Lord Jagannath heard the plea, he instructed Yamraj to reside on the third step at the temple’s entrance. He declared, “Whoever steps on this stair after seeing me shall be freed of sins, but will come to your abode.” Since then, devotees have referred to this step as Yamashila and deliberately avoid stepping on it, especially after receiving Lord Jagannath’s darshan (holy viewing). Many devotees choose to leap over the step or touch it with reverence instead of placing their feet on it. To make this tradition easier to observe, the temple administration has taken supportive measures. The Yamashila step stands out with its black color, unlike the other 21 steps leading into the temple.