Will Odisha Government Address Bengal's Naming of Digha Temple?
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Synopsis
The controversy surrounding the naming of the Digha temple as 'Jagannath Dham' has escalated, prompting the Odisha government to take action. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan is set to address this issue with the West Bengal government, ensuring the cultural integrity of the Jagannath tradition remains intact.
Key Takeaways
- Odisha government to address Digha temple naming.
- Letter to West Bengal government planned.
- Preservation of Jagannath culture emphasized.
- Investigation into related controversies ordered.
- BJD criticizes the naming decision.
Bhubaneswar, May 4 (NationPress) Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan announced on Sunday that the Odisha government intends to reach out to West Bengal regarding the designation of the Digha temple as 'Jagannath Dham'.
While addressing the media, Minister Harichandan stated, "I will inform Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi about this matter upon his return to Odisha, and a formal letter will be sent to the West Bengal government. There is no valid reason for the Digha Jagannath temple to be called 'Jagannath Dham'."
"The sanctity and cultural significance of the Jagannath Temple in Puri must be preserved, and the state government will take necessary actions to ensure this," he added.
The Law Minister revealed that the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration in Puri has already convened discussions with members of the Chhatisha Nijoga (the traditional 36 categories of servitors or Sevayats) and other servitors involved in the rituals of the deities.
On Saturday evening, the temple administration made significant decisions regarding the matter.
Minister Harichandan emphasized that the government is adopting a strict stance to prevent any breaches of discipline related to the services provided by servitors, temple rituals, and cultural practices.
The temple administration has been authorized to take suitable measures in this regard.
Additionally, the Law Minister criticized the opposition party, Biju Janata Dal, for the alleged "mismanagement" at the Jagannath temple in Puri during the 24 years of Naveen Patnaik's BJD governance.
He also attributed the rise in "indiscipline and mismanagement" in temple matters to the previous BJD administration.
Earlier, the BJD launched a strong critique of the West Bengal government regarding the naming of the Digha Jagannath Temple as 'Jagannath Dham'.
The party urged the Odisha government and temple administration to clarify the claims made by a senior Daitapati servitor about crafting the idols in the Digha temple from remnants of sacred Neem trees (Daaru) used for the deities in Puri temple during the Nabakalebara in 2015.
On Friday, Minister Harichandan ordered an inquiry into the ongoing controversy surrounding the Digha Temple in Bengal.
Point of View
It's essential to recognize the significance of cultural heritage in this dispute. The Odisha government's proactive stance reflects a commitment to preserving the integrity of the Jagannath tradition, which transcends state boundaries. This issue highlights the need for respectful dialogue and collaboration between states to maintain the sanctity of shared cultural practices.
NationPress
22/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the issue regarding the Digha temple?
The Odisha government is concerned about the naming of the Digha temple as 'Jagannath Dham' by West Bengal, believing it undermines the cultural significance of the original Jagannath Temple in Puri.
What actions will the Odisha government take?
The Odisha government plans to write to the West Bengal government to express its concerns and ensure the Jagannath Temple's cultural integrity is preserved.
What has Minister Harichandan stated about this matter?
Minister Harichandan emphasized the importance of keeping the Jagannath Temple's traditions intact and has ordered an investigation into related controversies.
How has the Biju Janata Dal responded to this issue?
The BJD has criticized the West Bengal government for the naming decision and has called on the Odisha government to clarify several allegations regarding the Digha temple.
What are the cultural implications of this naming controversy?
This controversy raises questions about the respect and preservation of cultural heritage across state lines, emphasizing the need for collaboration to uphold traditional values.
