Why is Odisha CM Concerned About Digha Temple's Name 'Jagannath Dham'?
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Synopsis
Odisha's CM Mohan Charan Majhi has voiced his concerns to West Bengal's CM Mamata Banerjee over the naming of the newly opened Jagannath Temple in Digha as 'Jagannath Dham'. This letter highlights the cultural and spiritual significance of the original Jagannath Dham in Puri, urging respect for its sacred identity.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha's CM emphasizes the significance of cultural identity.
- The name 'Jagannath Dham' is historically tied to Puri.
- Concerns over potential confusion among devotees are raised.
- Mutual respect between states is vital for cultural sensitivity.
- Religious sentiments must be honored in naming conventions.
Bhubaneswar, May 6 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, reached out to West Bengal's Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee via a letter expressing urgent concerns regarding the designation of the newly inaugurated Jagannath Temple located in the coastal town of Digha as 'Jagannath Dham'.
He urged the West Bengal administration to avoid referring to the Digha Jagannath Temple as Jagannath Dham.
In his correspondence, CM Majhi stated, "The Odisha government expresses its deep concern over the naming of the recently established Jagannath Temple at Digha, West Bengal, as 'Jagannath Dham.'"
He further emphasized that the Shree Jagannath Dham in Puri, Odisha, is one of the revered 'Char Dhams' in Hinduism, holding immense religious, spiritual, and cultural importance, not only for the people of Odisha but also for millions of devotees worldwide.
CM Majhi pointed out that the title 'Jagannath Dham' carries a significant and sacred identity tied to Puri, and using it in reference to any other temple or site could potentially offend the emotions of countless pilgrims and devotees, as well as undermine the unique heritage of Shree Jagannath Dham, Puri.
While acknowledging the widespread devotion to Lord Jagannath across India and beyond, CM Majhi asserted that employing the term 'Jagannath Dham' in any official or promotional context for the Digha temple could lead to confusion among devotees, dilute the historical identity of Puri as the original and venerated residence of the Lord, and hurt the religious sentiments of the people of Odisha.
He urged the West Bengal government to reconsider the use of the name 'Jagannath Dham' regarding the newly established Jagannath temple in Digha and to refrain from using this term in any official naming, communication, or promotional materials. "I sincerely hope that the West Bengal government will uphold the spirit of inter-state respect and cultural sensitivity in this matter and take necessary steps to address our concerns," he concluded.
Previously, the King of Puri, Gajapati Dibyasingha Deb, the 'Adya-sevak' or First Servitor of Lord Jagannath, stated on Monday that according to sacred texts like the Skanda Purana, Brahma Purana, and Padma Purana, only Puri can be referred to as 'Shree Jagannatha Dham'. He emphasized that Puri is the eternal Holy Abode of the Supreme Lord, Shree Purushottama-Jagannatha.
CM Majhi urged the authorities of the Digha Jagannath Temple to avoid calling it 'Jagannath Dham' and to respect the long-standing traditions and heritage of the Moola-peetha Shreemandira in Puri.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the sensitivity surrounding religious identities. The plea from Odisha's Chief Minister encapsulates the deep-rooted cultural sentiments tied to Jagannath in Puri. While regional pride is vital, so is mutual respect among states, especially regarding sacred traditions. A balanced dialogue is essential in addressing such concerns in a diverse nation like India.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the naming of the Digha Temple a concern?
The naming of the Digha Temple as 'Jagannath Dham' concerns the Odisha CM due to its deep-rooted connection with Puri's Jagannath Dham, which holds unique religious significance.
What is the historical significance of Puri's Jagannath Dham?
Puri's Jagannath Dham is recognized as one of the sacred 'Char Dhams' in Hinduism, signifying its unparalleled importance among millions of devotees.
How has the West Bengal government responded?
The letter from Odisha's CM requests that the West Bengal government refrain from using the term 'Jagannath Dham' for the Digha temple, emphasizing cultural sensitivity.
What do religious texts say about the name 'Jagannath Dham'?
Sacred scriptures like the Skanda Purana state that only Puri can be called 'Shree Jagannatha Dham', reinforcing its unique identity.
What are the implications of using 'Jagannath Dham' for other temples?
Using 'Jagannath Dham' for other temples can dilute the historical significance of Puri and potentially hurt the sentiments of many devotees.
