Is Business Driving the Digha Jagannath Temple's Construction?
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Synopsis
Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati raises concerns over the economic motivations behind the new Jagannath Temple in Digha. As the debate intensifies, the implications for religious sentiments and local economies come into focus. Will this development alter the dynamics of pilgrimage and worship in the region?
Key Takeaways
- The Digha Jagannath Temple's construction is viewed as economically motivated.
- Puri Shankaracharya emphasizes the significance of the original Puri temple.
- Controversies surrounding Prasad distribution highlight communal issues.
- Odisha's government is actively protecting its cultural heritage.
- Security measures are heightened for the upcoming Ratha Yatra festival.
Bhubaneswar, June 26 (NationPress) Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati criticized the West Bengal Government on Thursday, claiming that the primary motive behind building the Jagannath Temple at Digha and labeling it as ‘Jagannath Dham’ in the neighboring state is rooted in economic interests rather than religious sentiments.
During a press conference in the sacred coastal town, the Puri seer remarked: “A significant number of pilgrims visiting Puri originate from West Bengal, contributing to the livelihoods of priests, hotels, and various businesses here. Mamata (West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee) aims to redirect this revenue stream to West Bengal while exploiting the name of Lord Jagannath. This situation revolves around economic interests and is not at all related to religious feelings.”
The Puri seer further criticized the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) for being directionless in organizing the untimely Ratha Yatra and Snana Yatra.
Previously, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi wrote to his West Bengal counterpart, Mamata Banerjee, urging her to refrain from referring to the Digha Temple as ‘Jagannath Dham’ since it is exclusively linked to the 12th-century shrine in Puri, and its usage for any other temple is inappropriate.
The Digha Jagannath Temple has also faced controversy over the preparation and distribution of Prasad by certain Muslim shop owners.
Inaugurated by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on April 30, West Bengal's Jagannath Temple in Digha is a replica of the main Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha.
In light of the ongoing controversy surrounding the Digha Jagannath Temple, the Odisha government recently made a significant decision to apply for a patent on the glossary associated with the renowned 12th-century shrine and its deities, as well as the temple's logo.
Meanwhile, the holy city of Puri is preparing for the world-famous nine-day long Ratha Yatra festival, which is set to begin on June 27.
The city has been placed under a five-tiered security blanket for the festival.
Point of View
The recent statements by Puri Shankaracharya highlight a critical intersection of economy and religion in India. While the construction of the Digha Jagannath Temple garners both support and opposition, it is essential to navigate this dialogue with a balanced perspective, ensuring that economic development does not overshadow spiritual significance.
NationPress
26/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main concerns regarding the Digha Jagannath Temple?
The primary concerns revolve around the perceived economic motivations behind the temple's construction, as articulated by Puri Shankaracharya Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, suggesting that these interests overshadow genuine religious sentiments.
Who inaugurated the Digha Jagannath Temple?
The Digha Jagannath Temple was inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on April 30.
What controversy arose related to the Digha temple?
The temple faced controversy over the preparation and distribution of Prasad by certain Muslim shop owners, raising questions about communal harmony.
What steps is the Odisha government taking regarding the controversy?
The Odisha government has decided to apply for a patent on the glossary connected to the 12th-century Jagannath shrine and its deities, as well as the temple's logo.
When does the Ratha Yatra festival begin in Puri?
The world-famous Ratha Yatra festival in Puri is set to commence on June 27.
