One such incident was reported from Puri. A resident of the pilgrim city allegedly became a victim of one such online fraud. Bhagwan Mohapatra of Baseli Sahi in Puri ordered a Srimandir Patitapaban Bana (flag) on the e-commerce portal Amazon after going through advertisements on social media posts.
As per reports, certain social media posts claimed that the 'Patitapaban Banas' are sold online. Just to examine the reality and trustworthiness of the post, Mohapatra placed an order for a flag on March 15. The price of the flag was shown as Rs 999. After getting a discount, he paid Rs 889 for the same and the order was delivered to him on March 19.
However, on stripping open the packet, he was shocked to find that it was not a Patitapaban Bana but a flag of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Mohapatra immediately rushed to the office of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) along with the delivered package. He showed the order to lawyers and Chunara servitors, who were shocked to see that fraudsters were deceiving customers in the name of selling Patitapaban Bana. Selling of Patitapaban bana is illegal, informed sources.
Mohapatra said, "When I came to know that Patitapaban Bana is being sold online, I ordered one to see if it was true. I even asked the seller who allowed the sale of such flags. The seller retorted and asked who am I to raise questions. The seller claimed to be manufacturing the Patitapaban Bana. Then, I ordered the flag. The flag was opened in public. It was found that the flag was that of the BJP.”
He said that he would move the consumers' court over the fraud.
Reacting to the incident, Srimandir servitor, Dr Sarat Mohanty said, "We have no objection to items – from garments to groceries -- being sold on e-commerce platforms like Amazon. Even we don’t oppose it if it sells Bana. But if it sells those items as ‘Patitapaban Bana’ or uses Lord Jagannath's name, we condemn it. Making a flag and naming it Patitapaban Bana is highly condemnable.It is illegal.”
No comments were received from the seller or the e-commerce platform.
It was alleged that a woman foreign tourist managed to enter the temple premises. While ascending the Baisi Pahacha(a flight of 22 steps), she was spotted by some servitors. She was being accompanied by a youth.
Later, it was learnt that the woman is a Polish national. This raised questions as to how she could get into the temple, where foreigners are not allowed to enter.
On being informed, police started an investigation to find out why the foreign national entered the temple. Police detained the woman and the youth. They are being interrogated.
As for the incident, Puri Additional Superintendent of Police, Sushil Mishra said, "A person from outside Odisha and a foreign national (from Poland) were trying to enter the temple. They were unaware of the entry restrictions. They were detained and their documents were verified. Her passport was examined. She has visited various places in India.”
During a merger ceremony at the Sankha Bawan, Patra said that former MLA Sanjay Dasburma will surely come out victorious in the Satyabadi Assembly segment and incumbent Satyabadi MLA Umakant Samantaray will win in Brahmagiri.
Patra also asserted, “We will ensure victories for both the leaders by massive vote margins.”
He also sounded confident about the BJD's sixth victory in a row. "Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik is going to be the Chief Minister again for the sixth time," he observed.
Both Dasburma and Samantaray were in the news recently for their alleged squabbling on the seat choice.
Usually, the party supremo or top leadership of the party announces names of their nominees for the Parliamentary and Assembly seats, but Patra's announcement came as a surprise, leaving many to wonder if his announcement was deliberate or a faux pas in the spur of the moment.
Surprisingly, Umakant Samantaray was conspicuous by his absence on the occasion.
However, no reactions were received either from other leaders of the BJD or Umakant Samantaray.
As per reports, two proposals in this regard were moved by the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC).
However, questions are being raised if the two projects will take concrete shape because certain permissions are required from the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) while the safety aspect of the temple is to be weighed, said sources.
As per reports, one such underpass has been proposed from Srikrushna Cinema Hall Chhak to Dolabedi Corner and the other is from Dolabedi Corner to Badachhata Chhak.
Currently, a check-gate type system is operational near Dolabedi Corner. The check-gate often remains closed, causing difficulties for devotees and local residents in free movement. They get stuck for hours.
Durga Dasmohapatra, a member of the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee (SJTMC) said, "This proposal was just discussed at a meeting. It will take time for finalisation. There will be a survey on the proposal and its pros and cons will be assessed. Besides, some permissions are required."
DB Garnaik, the superintending archaeologist of the ASI said, “There was a proposal for a structure to ease movement of devotees. That place comes under a prohibited area. Any kind of structure will hamper the view of the temple. We had told them to have an underground pass. That will not hamper view and only facilitate movement.”
Senior Servitor Binayak Dasmohapatra said, "The plan to build underpasses under Badadanda is not possible at all. That can only be possible under Sridananda. The Badadanda will bear the load of three chariots and thousands of devotees during the Rath Yatra.”
However, Pradip Sahu, the Srimandir administrator (Development), said, “There is no such proposal about underpasses. Meetings will be held and if any decision is taken, then you will be informed about it.”
BJD observers and party leaders of the Puri Parliamentary constituency attended the first meeting. The ruling party leaders like Arun Sahoo, Sanjay Dasburma, Rudra Maharathy, Umakant Samanatray and Satya Pradhan among others took part in the meeting.
However, Puri MP Pinaki Misra was conspicuous by his absence.
The meeting assumed much importance for the party given the fact that its candidate Pinaki Misra had won from the Puri LS Constituency in 2019 by a slim margin of 10,000 votes against BJP’s Sambit Patra. The BJD is said to be focusing on Puri to increase its vote share and margin.
Reliable sources said BJD leader Arup Patnaik, who had unsuccessfully contested in the Bhubaneswar Lok Sabha segment, may be given a party ticket from the Puri LS seat while veteran leader Prasanna Patasani may be fielded from the Chilika Assembly seat.
On the other hand, the ruling party is well aware of the squabble between Satyabadi MLA Umakant Samantaray and former Bramhagiri MLA Sanjay Dasburma. It is said the BJD may change the turfs for the two leaders. Umakant may be given a ticket for the Bramhagiri Assembly seat and vice versa.
Speaking to the media, BJD legislator Arun Sahoo said, "At the meeting, discussions were held on the Puri Parliamentary constituency and Assembly seats. The meeting focused on further strengthening the party’s organisation to win all seats.”
Rabindra Jena, party observer for Khordha district said, "Discussions were held on programmes and activities to be taken up in coming days in the Chilika Assembly constituency.”
Another meeting was held for the Kendrapara LS constituency where party leaders like Pratap Deb, Pratap Jena, Atanu Sabyasachi Nayak, Anshuman Mohanty, Sashibhusan Behera, Dhruba Sahu and Aravind Mohapatra among others were present.
However, sitting Kendrapara MP, Anubhav Mohanty was not seen in the meeting.
After the meeting, Pratap Deb told the media, "The party supremo called us to hold discussions about the party’s preparedness in the Kendrapara parliamentary segment. Elaborate discussions were held on each Assembly seat.”
As per reports, in the last two months, the electricity bills of the 84-metre long and 12-metre wide AC tunnel barricade were pegged at a whopping Rs 14.17 lakh. To reduce such a huge cost of power consumption, some devotees and servitors have suggested the use of solar energy.
The temple administration is reportedly concerned over the financial burden and is fretting about how to pay off the bill.
Given such a situation, the administration is thinking of an alternative option for power supply while servitors have demanded free electricity for the sake of devotees.
Simply calculated, if the electricity bills for two months – January and February -- can be Rs 14.17 lakh, for one year, the total bill could cross Rs 1 crore.
Given the high electricity consumption, senior servitor Binayak Dasmohapatra said, ”All this – huge electricity bills - is due to lack of foresight. Before doing this tunnel, one should have assessed the electricity consumption. How these bills will be paid off? Now, the only option to reduce the electricity consumption is to switch over to solar systems. The other way is that the state government should bear the electricity bills.”
Madhab Mohapatra, a member of the Srimandir Management Committee, said, “Electricity consumption of not only AC tunnel but of other facilities under the temple administration should be taken into account together. As far as my assessment, the daily electricity consumption of all the facilities related to the temple can be Rs 2 lakh. This is not a small amount. We have to ponder over how to reduce the electricity consumption. Green energy can be utilized for the purpose.”
Ramachandra Nath, a devotee, said, ”Solar system should have been a better option. Using electricity will be a burden on the temple revenue or the government revenue.”
SJTA Administrator (Development) Pradip Kumar Sahu said, ”We are assessing the electricity bills with the help of assistant and junior engineers of our electrical section. Consumption of ACs will be verified.”
Mahari dance will be organised every evening while Vedic mantras will be chanted near the Singhadwar every morning from 6 am to 7 am. Then ‘Nama Sankirtan’ will be orgnaised on Srimandir Parikrama Marg.
According to the temple administration, such special measures have been taken for devotees coming to Puri for the darshan of the deities. They will return home with a different experience.
A decision to this effect was taken at a special meeting in the office of the Srimandir on Sunday.
Srimandir Administrator (development) Pradip Kumar Sahu chaired the meeting attended by members of the Sri Jagannatha Temple Managing Committee and the heads of various mutts. As per the decision, cultural programmes will be orgnaised on Srimandir Parikrama Marg.
Every evening, programmes on Odissi music, Chhanda, Champu, Gotipua dance, Mahari dance and other cultural programmes based on the Jagannath culture will be organized on the special galleries on the western and northern corners of the Srimandir Parikrama Marg every evening.
Speaking to the media, member of Sri Jagannatha Temple Managing Committee Ramakrushna Das Maharaj said, ”A decision was taken to organize all types of traditional cultural programs such as Odissi, Pala, Mahari, will be organised at the galleries in the evenings on different festivals or occasions. It will begin from Dola Purnima.”
The accused identified as Kanha Das was arrested by Puri Marine police. A bike was seized from Kanha’s possession.
As per reports, Kanha’s uncle had earlier repaired his bike at the shop. However, he had not given his payment to the garage owner. When Kanha came to the shop to repair his bike on Friday, the owner asked him to pay his uncle’s money. Kanha didn’t pay the amount and went away. Later in the night, he allegedly hurled two bombs at the shop.
The video of the incident has been captured by the CCTV camera installed nearby the place.
The injured persons were rushed to the nearby medical immediately. Their health condition is reportedly stable.
Upon being informed, Puri Marine police rushed to the spot and started an investigation into the incident. Accused Kanha has been arrested and further investigation into the incident is currently underway, informed police.
But the question arises on what basis the counting of the valuables will be carried out. Will the panel give importance to the 1978 counting report or rummage through old data and documents on the treasure trove?
Amid this exercise, a senior servitor has demanded inclusion of Deula Karana and Tadau Karan in the supervisory panel.
Meanwhile, a startling claim was made by a servitor that two more Ratna Bhandars are lying under the sanctum sanctorum of the Srimandir. The claim was also supported by a Srimandir researcher.
As per reports, Ramchandra Dasmohapatra, the Badagrahi of Devi Subhadra, claimed that two more Ratha Bhandars are underneath the sanctum sanctorum of Lord Jagannath and there are two entry points for Mahaprabhus’ Bhandar. One entry is used by servitors while the other entry is lying closed.
According to Dasmohapatra, Gajapati kings used a secret entry passage near the Ghantidwar which was noticed by the Ratna Bhandar supervisory committee in 2018.
“When we visited the place in 2018 after the missing of the Ratna Bhandar key, one door was clearly visible and was blocked with stones," Dasmohapatra said.
He further stated that the deities have more ornaments and valuables than those enlisted by the Ratna Bhandar supervisory panel in 1978.
He pointed out that there was no mention of ornaments used for Raghunath Besa of Lord Jagannath in the 1978 list. He also suggested that the panel formed by the state government to count ornaments and valuables should ferret out old data on the valuables.
Keeping this in view, Dasmohapatra suggested that Deula Karan and Tadau Karan have old documents with them and they should be included in the 12-member panel which should look into their old documents on the ornaments.
Besides, the nine days during the Rath Yatra is not enough to count the ornaments and valuables, he opined.
Senior Daitapati (servitor) Binayak Dasmohapatra said, ”If the panel does not go deep into the past data before the 1978 list, how the panel will know the exact number of ornaments and valuable? Deula Karan and Tadau Karan have those documents. They should be included in the panel to ascertain the exact number of valuables.”
According to historian and Srimandir researcher Surendra Kumar Mishra, the Srimandir administration had released the list of ornaments and valuables of the inner and outer Ratna Bhandars made by the 1978 panel. The counting which was conducted from May 13 to July 23 in 1978 pointed out that the deities have 454 types of gold ornaments which weighed 12,000 tonnes, 838 bharis; 293 types of silver ornaments that weighed 22,000 tones and 153 bharis.
The list had also mentioned about ornaments of 37 'era pakhi' (crowns) which were extracted by Gajapati kings from the crowns of the kings who vanquished in different times in the past, he added.
Mishra also said that as 37 crowns have not been mentioned in the 1978 list, those items might have been stored in one of the secret Ratna Bhandars. “According to history, Gajapati kings while going on territorial expeditions carried ornaments and valuables and stored them in two secret Ratna Bhandars,” he added.
The researcher also stated that ornaments used for Raghunath besa held in 1577, 1739, 1809, 1833, 1842, 1850, 1893, 1896 and the last time in 1905 should be taken into account.
He said, ”From the times of Ganga dynasty till 1733, there was no effort to open the bhandars. But they created a Bhandar beneath the Bhitara Bhandar and ornaments were concealed there to ward off the greed of foreign marauders.”
On the other hand, ASI’s DB Garnaik has said, ”Nine days would not be sufficient enough for supervision and counting of ornaments during the Rath Yatra. Still, we will try to do it.”
As per the RTI reply received by RTI activist Dilip Baral, a whooping Rs 1.60 crore was spent for erecting barricades on the grand road on the occasion of this New Year's Day.
Surprisingly enough, in the year 2019-20 when the temple was out of bounds for devotees due to the outbreak of Covid 19, Rs 35.55 lakh was spent for putting up barricades. The next year, i.e. 2020-21, the amount spent on barricades came down to Rs 21 lakh. In 2022-23, it again went up to Rs 1.11 crore. And, this year’s expenditure has crossed the record of the last 24 years.
RTI activist Baral has blamed the collusion between the administrative officials and contractors citing loot of government money.
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“Prior to 2019-20, the money spent on temporary barricades used to be very low. But in the last three years, crores were spent. I suspect the involvement of contractors, officers of the R & B department, and other officials. In the coming days, a complaint will be filed with the Vigilance department. A proper investigation would reveal everything,” said Baral.
Barricades are generally put up during festivals and on the occasion of New Year's Day. For this, bamboo poles and clothes are required. They are brought on rent. From the look of the present barricading and cloth roof, it would be difficult to accept that it cost Rs 1.60 crore.
“The barricade means 200 to 300 bamboo poles and sheets of clothes. It is not the kind of roof that can check rain water. By erecting this, Rs 1.60 crore has been pocketed,” said Ramesh Prasad Singh, a devotee.
Similarly, senior servitor Binayak Dasmohapatra said, “It seems a large amount of money is being misappropriated. So we submitted complaints to the Vigilance department and the district Collector, requesting a probe."
When contacted, Puri district Collector Siddharth Shankar Swain said, “I will take action after holding discussions with our concerned officers.”
The tourist has been identified as Anthony Van Arkel. Rendered penniless by the theft, he has been staying at the Niladri Nilay shelter since then.
As per reports, Anthony was allegedly robbed by a taxi driver during his visit to the coastal town in January. The taxi driver allegedly decamped with cash worth Rs 6 lakh, a diamond ring and Anthony’s camera.
After losing everything, Anthony went to the police and lodged a complaint. He has appealed to the Odisha government to help him find his money so that he can go back to his home country.
“The driver stole my money and my cards. He stole my watch, my diamond ring and money when I was at his house. I request the police and the government to help me move out of Puri and catch my flight back home Netherlands,” Anthony pleaded in front of the camera.
Social worker Daniel Nayak who has been helping Anthony all along said, “I request the administration to nab the accused driver and help Anthony so that he can reach his home safely.”
Following the complaint, the police have found the taxi and seized it. But the accused driver is still at large.
Meanwhile, the Puri SP has informed that the Netherlands embassy will be contacted and appropriate steps will be taken to send the tourist home safely.
At present, Divyang devotees are being allowed to go up to Singhadwar. They are returning after having the darshan of Lord Patitapaban from the Lion’s Gate.
They had been demanding a solution for their entry into the temple.
The issue was discussed at the recently held Chhattisha Nijog meeting. There it was decided that special wooden chairs would be manufactured. There will be carriers (bahaks) to carry the chair with a Divyang devotee on it. They will be taken through the Ghanti Dwar and kept near the Jaya Vijaya Dwar. From there, they can have the darshan of the holy Trinity.
Also Read: Odisha govt forms high-level panel for supervising inventory of Srimandir Ratna Bhandar
Informing about the development, Shree Jagannath Temple Management Committee member, Madhab Chandra Mohapatra said, “They (Divyangs) had been raising their issue at different forums. Though it was late, a solution has been found. The problems faced by Divyang devotees were discussed at the Chhatisha Nijog meeting. All the members agreed unanimously to the wooden chair facility. Meanwhile, two special wooden chairs fitted with two poles have been manufactured. They are for demonstration. Four carriers will carry a chair. Instead of carrying them on their shoulders, they will carry them in their hands.”
“To avail this chair facility, the Divyang devotees are required to apply online. After getting their slots, they will visit the temple. Every day, 20 such devotees can avail the facility. We will allow another five such devotees who reach the temple without prior booking,” he added.
As per reports, the required land acquisition has already been completed. The contractor is now working towards constructing the drainage system following which electric poles will be shifted paving the way for the service road on both sides of the proposed bridge.
The construction of the structure will begin after the service roads are made operational. The RoB is scheduled to be completed by April 2025.
“We have Marine Drive on this side of the city. People can go to Bhubaneswar, Nimapara and Gop from this side as well. This road gets busy with tourists who come to visit Konark temple. It is good that the overbridge work has finally begun. It will really help us when completed,” said a local Manoranjan Mishra.
“Land acquisition has already been completed. Drain work is going on. The contractor is currently constructing the service road. Shifting of the sewerage line and electric poles is going on too. The service road work will be completed on both sides of the overbridge after the drain is constructed and it will facilitate movement of vehicles,” said Assistant Executive Engineer Saroj Kumar Mishra.
The railway over bridge is a long-standing demand of locals. Earlier, they had submitted a memorandum comprising one lakh signatures to the Union Ministry of Surface Transport for its construction.
The need for the over bridge was necessitated as traffic gets disrupted for several hours at the level crossing on the Puri-Konark-Bhubaneswar golden triangle route. As many as 51 daily trains apart from weekly ones ply on the tracks owing to which the gates remain closed for hours.
Apart from the RoB at Matiapada, Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has already announced the construction of the railway line between Puri and Konark.
Puri MLA Jayanta Sarangi said, “Puri-Konark railway line will help passengers move between two historic towns by train. The central government has taken responsibility for developing Jagannath Dham. Not only this railway line, but more developmental works are on the cards in this area.”
Even the tour operators and travel agencies welcomed the decision to roll train between Puri and Konark.
“This is a really welcome move. It would be more beneficial if the railway project could be done without damaging the jungle along the marine drive. It would be even better if the government could facilitate waterways between the two towns. People and tourists can enjoy travelling through the sea between Puri and Konark,” said the Secretary of the Odisha Tour Operator Association Jugabrata Kar.
The ASI has set a target to complete the work before March 20.
Speaking to the media, ASI superintendent DB Garnaik said, “The conservation work of the Srimandir Nata Mandap has already been started. Many components of its conservation work like roof-tightening and leak plugging have been completed. The only work left is the repair of the cracked beam.”
The ASI has discussed the beam repair with the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration, and nijogs/servitors who are looking after all types of rituals in Srimandir at a meeting recently and the work will start tomorrow, he added.
“All have assured cooperation during the repair of the Nata Mandap beam. No problem will arise during the repair work between 1 pm and 7 pm as no major rituals are performed during that period. A support beam will be placed under the cracked beam. The structural beam will be there to avert pressure during any structural imbalance or disaster,” Garnaik said.
Notably, at the recent Chhatisa Nijog meeting, it was decided that the conservation work of the Nata Mandap will be carried out from February 23 to March 19. To streamline the rituals, the Lion’s Gate will be opened at 2 am and the Ratra Pahuda will be performed at 11 pm.
Addressing a presser, Puri SP Pinak Mishra said that the accused were identified as Gunamani Pradhan of Baliput and Jitendra Kahal and Ranjan Pradhan of Chhaitana.
He added that further investigation into the matter is underway and police are investigating if the three are involved in other cases.
A complaint was filed at Talabania police station on February 12 about the theft of two idols and ornaments from Mukteswar temple.
Police were investigating a bike-lifting racket. While interrogating some accused about the racket, police then only came to know about their link with the temple burglary.
Police later raided the house of Gunamani and arrested him and his son in Baliput Patnasahi.
As per the allegations, some staff quarters in the second campus of the college have been demolished. Moreover, some portion of the 23-acre college land has been illegally encroached upon with iron wire fencing around it.
“I have written letters in this regard to Puri Collector, SP, Tehsildar and Talabania police station. I have also informed about the development to the government. No demarcation of the land has been done so far. So, on which basis they have done the fencing?” asked SCS college principal Prof Mihir Mishra.
“A miscreant has demolished the staff quarter and encroached some portion of the college land illegally. We demand stern action against him,” said former secretary of the college Sukant Kumar Pradhan.
“If an inch of the college will be encroached upon, former students and residents of the area will stage massive protests in the near future,” said former students’ leader Rajesh Mishra.
As per reports, some mutts in Puri have donated land to the college. However, one Narayan Das from Kumbharapada area is claiming that the record of 3 acres and 20 decimal lands is in his name. As per the lawyer of Das, the land belongs to the latter as per the order of the Court of the Commissioner Consolidation, Bhubaneswar.
The land is still in the care of Narayan Das and hence it belongs to him,” said Das’ lawyer Jayakrushna Nanda.
Meanwhile, responding to the allegations, Puri Collector Bijay Kumar Das said that action will be taken as per the provision in law following an inquiry into the incident.
“I have asked the Tehsildar to conduct an inquiry into the matter. Proper action will be taken as per the provision in the law following the completion of the inquiry,” said Das.
A target has been set to complete the construction work within 1,095 days. As per reports, the online tender process will start from February 21 and technical bids will be opened on April 21, 2024.
“On behalf of Commerce & Transport Department, Govt. of Odisha, the Chief General Manager (P&C), IDCO, IDCO Towers, Janpath, Bhubaneswar invites International competitive bids in Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode in double cover system through online mode only,” read the letter issued by IDCO.
“Earlier the Centre has approved the diversion of 27 acres of forest land for the development of the Shree Jagannath International Airport project. The environment in Puri will be certainly affected due to the construction of the airport. Hence, the airport should be constructed accordingly keeping it in mind,” said environmentalist Jagannath Bastia.
“As the area is near to the sea, permission should be taken from Odisha Coastal Zone Management Authority before the construction of the airport. Most importantly, an environmental impact assessment has to be made to know the impact of the new airport on the sea, atmosphere, animals, birds, and residents of the area. Based on the report, the Centre will provide an environment clearance certificate before the construction work. The State Pollution Control Board will also have to give consent to establish it,” he added.
Meanwhile, Puri residents have expressed their pleasure over the development.
“It’s great news for the residents of Puri as Shree Jagannath International Airport will be constructed in the city. There will be an increase in the number of tourists to Puri due to the airport. Puri will develop as an eco-tourism spot,” said a resident of Puri.
Das has been accused of assaulting the NAC municipality engineer over his share of money. Based on a complaint by the NAC municipality engineer Ashok Dalbehera, Daspalla police registered a case and launched a probe into the incident.
Meanwhile, the BJD-supported vice-chairman has been on the run after the incident.
According to sources, at least 7 buses carrying devotees from all wards of the NAC had gone to visit the Srimandir Parikrama Project heritage corridor around the Jagannath Temple as per the Odisha government’s order to take devotees from every panchayat and civic body to Puri.
NAC municipality engineer Ashok Dalbehera had taken the responsibility of taking the women devotees and bringing them back safely. After their holy visit, the women devotees along with Dalbehera were returning back home when the vice-chairman allegedly intercepted their bus near Khordha’s Jankia and heckled everyone.
He allegedly beat up Dalbehera after he refused to give money and threatened him with dire consequences.
“As per government’s orders, I had taken the women devotees to Puri Srimandir. After the visit, we were back home when he stopped the bus and demanded money. When I said that there was no money, he started beating me up,” informed Dalbehera.
“Based on a complaint by Ashok Dalbehera, municipality engineer of Daspalla NAC, we have registered a case and a probe into the incident is on. He has accused Daspalla NAC vice-chairman of assault,” informed Prangya Kar, IIC, Jankia police station.
“I’m well aware that 7 buses had taken women devotees. I only came to know about the whole incident now. So, I will talk to both of them and then take necessary action,” informed Daspalla NAC chairman.
In her complaint, the victim said that two people identified as Trinath Behera and his associate Bulu Behera gang-raped her in a mango orchard.
She alleged that Trinath called her husband from her house to the mango orchard. The accused gave her husband liquor before attacking him by tying up his hand and legs. It was around 10.30 pm in the night and when her husband screamed for help, she rushed to the spot.
There, the two were under the spell of liquor and dragged her to another place and gang-raped her, she added.
Sources said the victim was medically examined.
Meanwhile, police have started an investigation into the incident and arrested one of the accused.
The husband of the victim alleged, “After I returned home from work, Trinath and Bulu (accused) took me to a place and offered me liquor. Then they tied me to a bush and raped my wife in front of me. The incident took place at around 11.30 pm.”
IIC Samsmita Behera said, “A case has been registered under section 376(D) of IPC following a complaint from a woman. The victim is being medically examined. An accused has been detained and will be produced in court.”
Report by Rabi Pujari
“Modi ji has been laying emphasis that development in Odisha should take place at a fast pace. As a part of this, today two decisions have been taken. The work on the long-awaited Puri-Konark railway line will start soon. This apart, a special train service between Puri and Ayodhya will start in July or August month,” informed the Union Minister.
The Union Minister attended the foundation stone laying ceremony of the Siddhamahaveer Railway Over Bridge at Saradhabali in Puri. Union Road Transport and Highways Minister, Nitin Gadkari also joined the ceremony through video conference.
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On this occasion, Gadkari said he was happy that the foundation stone-laying or inauguration ceremonies of 28 National Highways were being done today. He also made an announcement that a 6-kilometre-long road connecting Satapada of Krushnaprasad block in Puri district and Janhikuda will soon be constructed.
Among others, BJP national Spokesperson Sambit Patra and officials of the Road Transport and Highways attended the event.
This drone footage shows a youth operating it to capture the aerial view of the shrine.
While the video fetched a huge number of likes and views on the youth’s social media handle, a complaint has been filed at Singhadwar Police Station in this regard.
It is worth mentioning that the area above the Srimandir is a no-fly zone.
Earlier, in December 2022, a drone video captured from close proximity to Puri Srimandir had gone viral on social media platforms too. The videographer, who captured the shot, was identified as one Animesh Chakrabarthy from West Bengal.
The video had gone viral after it was shared by one Krushna Chandra Padhy on his social media account. The clip was earlier uploaded by Animesh on his YouTube channel Animesh YouTube. The YouTuber has also thanked Odisha Police in the video.
Notably, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) had swung into action and lodged a complaint with Singhadwar Police after the pictures of the sanctum sanctorum (Garbha Gruha) of Puri Srimandir went viral on social media.
A youth from Bangladesh, Akash Choudhury had clicked the photos of the temple interior and posted them on his Facebook account.
Rana servitors have prepared beautiful ornaments like ‘Padmapakhuda, ‘Hansa’, Karapallaba’ to be used in the attractive attire of the deities. Singhari servitors will adorn the deities with ornaments as part of ‘Padma Besha’.
The Padma Besha is donned on any Saturday or Tuesday between the new moon day of the month of ‘Magha’ and Basanta Panchami. As per the tradition, Badachhata mutt provides all the raw materials used in the attire. The mutt also provides prasads like ‘Khiri’ and ‘Amalu’ to be offered to the sibling deities on the day of the besha.
Following the completion of ‘Chandan Lagi’ during night hours, the deities will be adorned with ‘Padma Behsa’ as part of ‘Bada Singhara’.
As per reports, ardent devotee Manohar Das had wished to have darshan of Lord Jagannath in this attire. Hence to fulfill the wish of His devotee, the Holy Trinity is adorned with ‘Padma Behsa’ during the Odia month of ‘Magha’.
As per legends, though the lotus flower is rare in the month of ‘Magha’, Lord Jagannath had appeared before His devotee in ‘Padma Besha’. To commemorate the incident and celebrate the Lord’s blessing, the Holy Trinity is adorned with the famous ‘Lotus Attire’ at Srimandir.
The devotees can have darshan of the Holy Trinity with this rare attire at Srimandir tonight and tomorrow during ‘Mangala Alati’.
“‘Padma Besha’ looks as if lotus flowers have bloomed amid a pond. All kinds of preparations have been made for the popular attire. It’s a very rare attire of Lord,” said Rana servitor Basanta Rana.
The seized brown sugar was approximately valued at Rs 50 lakh.
Addressing a presser, Puri SP Pinak Mishra said that the Sea Beach Police station received information about the drug dealing near Talabania helipad. A team of police raided the place and arrested two drug dealers. However, the customers managed to flee.
Police seized 522 gm of brown sugar, two bikes, and two cell phones.
The SP further said that an investigation into the matter is underway.
“We will investigate their forward and backward linkage -- who others are involved in it and from where the two were procuring the banned substance. Their distribution network is under scanner. The two will be thoroughly interrogated,” the SP said, adding that police will carry on their efforts to make Puri free from drug peddling.
The deliberations in the meeting centered on preparing an error-free calendar for the coming Odia year with accurate astrological calculations to determine the days and timings of the upcoming festivals and rituals.
As the current year is a leap year (February will be of 29 days), the day for Pana Sankranti will be decided at another meeting.
Confusion cropped over the Pana Sankranti date. Various calendars(Panjikas) have differed on the date of Pana Sankranti. Radharaman and Kohinoor calendars estimated the auspicious day to fall on April 14 while Samant Chandrasekhar and Biraja calendars have agreed on April 13.
Krushnaprasad Mohapatra of Kohinoor Panjika said that Radharaman, DN Tripathy, and Kohinoor Panjikas have estimated that the auspicious day will fall on April 14.
The temple astrologers will decide if it will fall on April 13 or 14. Hence, the temple administration has called another meeting on February 12 to remove the confusion on the date of Pana Sankranti. Madhab Chandra Panda, a member of the SMC, said that the meeting will be held at 11.30 am on February 12 to decide the date.
As per new calculations, the Ansara niti will be of 13 days while the Panchuka will be of four days instead of 5. As a result, Laxmi Nrusingha Besa of Lord Jagannath won't be organised this year, said a senior Daitapati servitor.
Emerging after the meeting, Sanjay Satpathy of Radharaman Panjika said, “The days for festivals of Lord Jagannath were determined. One or two festivals will be determined on February 12. However, the date for Pana Sankranti has not been finalized. We have calculated that the Pana Sankranti falls on April 14.”
He added that only leap year is not a deciding factor for Pana Sankranti, but astrologers have to calculate the days of ‘Eka Rasi Bhoga Kala' of Rabi in the month of Mina. In most almanacs, the Bhoga Kala of Rabi is 31 days. As Bhoga kala is extended by one day, the calculation of the day for Pana Sankranti will be decided accordingly, he observed.
Take the case of the school and anganwadi centre at Nashikeshwar Gram Panchayat under Kakatpur block in Puri district. Both the educational institutions in the village don’t have their own buildings and kitchens. These government-run institutions are reportedly functioning from the panchayat office building.
As per reports, the primary school in the village was set up in 2010. However, the teachers of the school are forced to take classes on the verandah of the panchayat office as the institution doesn’t have its own building. Similarly, the anganwadi centre in the village is running in the panchayat office godown. The computer room of the office is being used as the kitchen for the school and the anganwadi centre. Making things worse, both institutions can’t function whenever the panchayat office is closed.
“Our school doesn’t have a building of its own. As a result, around 50 students of our school are forced to sit on the verandah of the panchayat office. We are facing a lot of problems in our study because of it. We demand the construction of our school building at the earliest,” said Guduli Barck, a student.
Meanwhile, the headmaster of the school and the anganwadi worker have alleged that the higher authorities are sitting idle despite having knowledge about the sorry state of both institutions.
“We are fully dependent on the panchayat office for taking classes and cooking purposes. We are facing many problems as the school doesn’t have its own building. Only two teachers are teaching 50 students on the verandah. We demand construction of our school building at the earliest,” said headmaster Sanjay Sahu.
“We are forced to run the anganwadi centre at the panchayat office godown as we don’t have our own building. The higher authorities are taking no steps in this regard and as a result, we are facing so many problems,” said anganwadi worker Mamata Sahu.
In response to the allegations, Kakatpur Block Education Officer (BEO) Dilip Kumar Jena said that the issue will be solved soon.
“Land has already been identified for the school building and a grant has also been provided. The school building will be constructed soon,” said Jena.
Meanwhile, Kakatpur CDPO Merry Michael expressed her helplessness about the construction of the anganwadi centre building.
“I have already appraised the issue to the higher authorities. We are trying to make an alternative arrangement soon,” said Michael.
Speaking to the media, ASI superintendent (Puri Circle), DB Garnayak said that the crack was an outcome of cabling and pipeline laid on the structure. “The crack has been inspected and the crack-ridden part will be replaced with a new stone structure in two or four days. Its design has been made,” he informed.
“The crack did not develop today but was seen long back. When cabling and pipelines were laid, the crack had developed then. Soil was deposited over it. During the Parikrama project, the soil was removed and the crack appeared,” the ASI superintendent said.
He further stated, “There is also a crack on the northern beam of the Garuda Stambha. The crack is five years old and has not spread further.
A support beam made of stainless steel is ready. We have set a target to finish the work by the Rath Yatra,” Garnayak said.
With repeated disruption of rituals, the sentiments of the devotees are reportedly hurt and most of them voiced concerns and resentment.
Saroj Mohanty, a resident of Kendrapara said, “Crores of Odias who love Lord Jagannath are hurt by daily rituals of Srimandir getting affected often. Why is this happening again and again? The matter should be investigated. Those responsible for this should be punished."
Ananta Lenka, a devotee from Alijanga was hurt by the development. “Lord Jagannath who is the Lord of the Universe is forced to fast. What the servitors, administration, and the state government are doing when rituals are disrupted. We want stern action against those responsible for it.”
Manas Sahu, a devotee from Baripada said that there is no proper system working there. “Suars and Mahasuars are indulging in fights disrupting the rituals. The government should pay heed to such things,” he added.
Gyana Pani, a resident of Bhadrak said, “For the last two days, Suars and Mahasuars indulged in a dispute due to which devotees could not get Mahaprasad. There is always a dispute in the temple. If such things are happening routinely, what the Srimandir administrator is doing. Lord Jagannath belongs to all. Why there is politics over the issue.”
Debdas Mahankuda, a devotee from Nabarangpur observed, “Servitors and Pandas of Srimandir should not get divided, but they should work in unity for the service of the deities. It is their duty and responsibility to ensure that rituals are solemnised routinely and Lord Jagannath and His siblings are not allowed to go hungry.”
Babuli Sethi, a devotee of Jharigaon said, “If the servitors are responsible for disruption of rituals, the Srimandir administration should be taken action against them.”
Prakash, a resident of Balasore, who was hurt over the delay of rituals, said that Lord Jagannath was forced to go on fasting. Lakhs of devotees visit Srimandir to have the blessings of Lord Jagannath and get the Mahaprasad. Devotees could not get Mahaprasad at the Bhoga Mandap due to delay in rituals,” he lamented.
Former Secretary of Suara Mahasuara Nijoga, Krushnachandra Samantara said that preparation of Khechudi from the mixed rice will not be allowed.
“We are in charge of preparing ‘Prasad’ for Lord Jagannath. It doesn’t mean that we will prepare the Prasad from whatever rice we are given. The collected rice has been mixed with many kinds of lower-quality rice including parboiled rice. I will not allow the collected rice to be cooked if it is not of proper quality,” said Samantara.
As per reports, around 12,000 quintals of rice were collected through Arpan Rath before the inauguration of the Srimandir Heritage Corridor project in Puri. However, instead of sending the collected rice to Puri, it was stored in different places across the State. But devotees expressed resentment over the development following which the collected rice was sent to Puri from January 24.
As per reports, the collected rice was first stored at Gundicha temple. Subsequently, around 5,000 quintals of rice have been sent to the Akshay Patra Foundation so far. However, the collected rice could not be stored there for a longer period of time due to bug infestation threat. Moreover, the collected coconuts will perish in a maximum of 10 to 15 days.
Following the development, there has been uncertainty over the use of 12,000 quintals of collected rice in the service of the Holy Trinity. Under such circumstances, several devotees of Lord Jagannath have alleged that the State government has duped them by playing with their emotions.
“The government asked us to offer rice to Lord Jagannath through Arpan Rath. However, we came to know that it will not be offered to Lord Jagannath. We feel that our emotion towards the Lord has been played with,” said Bipin Bihari Apat, a devotee of Lord Jagannath.
Meanwhile, experts of Jagannath culture are of the view that the servitors should examine the quality of rice properly before taking a decision on its usage.
“Had any devotee offered parboiled rice through Arpan Rath then it should not be offered to the Lord. Suara Mahasuara Nijog servitors should examine the rice properly before taking the decision whether it will be cooked or not,” said Jagannath culture expert, Dr Naresh Chandra Das.
Meanwhile, Srimandir managing committee member, Anant Tiadi has informed that a committee will be set up to check quality of rice received through ‘Arpan Raths’ after a meeting on the matter.
As per the allegation by the villagers, the newly-built road connecting Chanrapada and Denua Gram has started peeling off exposing the poor quality work.
The villagers have demanded immediate reconstruction of the road and stern action against the contractor and the engineer for poor-quality work.
As per reports, the road was built by Nimapada Village Welfare Department with Special Repair Funds. However, the newly-built road was damaged barely after two weeks due to alleged poor quality work.
Though the villagers have informed about the poor quality of the road work to the concerned contractor and engineer, it has fallen in deaf ears, it was alleged.
The aggrieved villagers have demanded stern actions against the contractor and the engineer. Moreover, they have also demanded immediate repairing of the damaged road. The villagers have warned to start an agitation if their demands are not met at the earliest.
“We had complained about the poor quality of work during the construction of the road. However, we were told that the quality of construction is of good quality at that time. But, the road didn’t last even for 15 days. We are facing several problems while commuting on the road. Many accidents are happening on the road daily,” said a villager.
“We demand strong action against the contractor and the erring officials involved in the construction work. The road should also be reconstructed at the earliest. If our demands are not met, we will start an agitation soon,” he added.
Meanwhile, Assistant Engineer of Nimapada Village Welfare Department Dhananjay Badajena has assured that the damaged road will be repaired soon.
“The road has been damaged due to heavy harvest work in agricultural lands nearby. The amount of damage will be accessed and it will be repaired soon,” said Badajena.
As per the Secretary of Suara Mahasuara Nijoga Narayan Mahasuara, the rice and betel nuts collected through Arpan Rath will be used in the service of Lord Jagannath at Puri Srimandir.
“The rice and betel nuts collected from Arpan Rath will be kept at Nijoga Gruha in Koili Baikuntha. Mahaprasad, Khechudi and pitha (cake) will be made from the rice. If the collected rice is suitable then Mahaprasad will be made from it. If it is of mixed kind then Khechudi and cakes will be prepared from it. Apart from that, muruja and jhothi chita will also be made from the rice,” said Narayan Mahasuara.
“Moreover, the collected rice will be used in ‘Alati’ at Srimandir on a daily basis. The betel nuts will be used in preparing ‘Bidia pana’ for the Holy Trinity. We will take necessary steps to care about the emotions of devotees towards the Lord,” he added.
Notably, the Odisha government had reportedly spent crores of rupees in rolling out Arpan Raths in villages to collect betel and rice from devotees, as well as for the publicity of the Srimandir Parikrama project.
However, it was alleged that the collected rice and betel are lying unused at either panchayat offices or village temples. Devotees and people were told that the collected rice and betel would be sent to Srimandir.
They voiced their suppressed resentment for such negligence. Gopinath Mishra, an oustee, said, "Before the eviction, the administration had promised us to issue special identity cards, but it has not been done as yet.”
Chittaranjan Jena, another displaced person said, "We were told that identity cards will be issued to us. Besides, there will be information plaques where the names of oustees will be engraved. That did not happen. They did not even think it wise to at least give an invitation card on this auspicious occasion.”
Basant Manjari Jena was unhappy after being evicted from near the temple area. “Where is the happiness? We were evicted from our houses. Not an invitation was given to us to get a chance to attend such a grand ceremony, she added.
On the other hand, the temple administration has felicitated people starting from gardeners to heavy vehicle operators on the inauguration day today for their labour and dedication to the infrastructure development. Raghurajpur’s Pattachitra artist Universe Maharana, construction worker Laxmi Pradhan, horticulturist Raju Bhoi, JCB operator Prakash Pradhan, stone sculptors Rabindra Gouda and Kirtan Moharana, masons Kabiraj Rout and Bibhu Rout and labour assistant Sukant Pradhan, who were feted on the occasion, expressed their happiness.
As per reports, Gajapati King Dibyasingha Deb will give ‘Purnahuti’ to the three-day Maha Yajna between 1.30 pm and 2 pm. After the end of the Yajna, ‘Nama Sankirtan’ will be organised for half an hour.
On the second day of the Yajna today, rituals like Panchakarma, Shala Prabesh, and sprinkling of sacred water on the new structures were held. The recital of four Vedas was carried out like the previous day.
Ranjan Das, the chief administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Collector Samarth Verma, and Central range IG Ashish Singh monitored the preparations. Trial runs on Sri Setu and Sri Marga were also done.
Devotees and scholars are happy to see the renovation of the surroundings of Srimandir, but they have objected to some superficial works. They have lamented the way some old mutts were dismantled for the Parikrama project. They have raised questions over the restoration of Emar Mutt and Raghunandan Library. Sukant Pradhan, a culture lover, asked what is the use of doing such things if the mutts are not protected.
Narayan Ramanuja Das, Mahant of Uttraparswa Mutt said that many mutts are in dilapidated condition while many portions of the Emar Mutt are in bad shape.
The three-day long Maha Yajna began as a prelude to the inauguration of the Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa (Srimandir Heritage Corridor project) while Vedic mantras were chanted at the four gates of the Srimandir amid heightened security and CCTV surveillance.
As per reports, all parts of the sacred city are now reverberating with the chanting of the four Vedas.
The Rigveda is being recited in front of Sighadwar; the Samaveda in front of the Paschimadwar; the Yajurveda in front of Uttaradwar and the Atharvaveda in front of Dakshinadwar.
After the Yajna Adhibas ritual was solemnised on Sunday, Akhandadweepa was lit at sunset, marking the auspicious beginning of the Maha Yajna.
The Yajna Kunda has been set up on the ‘Aisanyakona’ of Srimandir.
Acharya Brahamins ordained by Gajapati king Dibyasingha Deb have been offering ‘Ghrutahuti’ (pouring ghee on Yajana fire). Such age-old rituals have ushered in an atmosphere of deep devotion in the entire pilgrim city. Gajapati King Dibyasingha Deb will offer ‘purnahuti’(making the end of Yajna) on Wednesday.
Pandit Dibakar Mohapatra, one of those chanting Vedic mantras said, "In the Rigveda, sthuti (paens) is sung for Gods while in the Yajurveda ‘ahuti’ is offered through mantras to the gods. In the Samaveda, the gods are entertained with music and songs. In Atharvaveda, mantras are recited to ward off mental sins and worries.”
A woman devotee who came from Bengaluru expressed her happiness after going around the Srimandir with its face-lifted surroundings. “Lord Jagannath attracted me from Bengaluru. Though my train ticket was cancelled, I still managed to come here. Lord Jagannath is the God of feelings and communion,” she observed.
He made this statement while taking part in a sanitation drive on the premises of Ram Mandir in Bhubaneswar on Monday.
When some reporters asked the BJP leader whether he is going to attend the inauguration of the Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa in Puri, Samal said, “The inauguration of the Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa is purely a party programme. Lord Jagannath is not with any party. People should decide if we should attend the inauguration or not.”
He said that Jagannath used to come out of Srimandir only during the 9-day-long Rath Yatra to meet devotees. "Jagannath belongs to the Lord of the Universe and He is the leader of all people. Jagannath can never be a part of any party," he added.
BJD leader, Amar Prasad Satpathy dismissed BJP’s allegation, saying that the Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa is not being done on a partisan line, but it is a religious programme.
“The project will be scripted in history. Researchers can only say after how many years such a transformation of the Srimandir has taken place. Gajapati Maharaj has said that all will revisit the history. This is a novel and unique programme. The project will bring joy for the devotees of Lord Jagannath and culture lovers,” he added.
He also said that the Gajapati Maharaj and Dharma Gurus are attending the programme.
On the other hand, the district administration has made provision for parking lots at three places in view of the entry of a large number of vehicles into the city. Elaborate security has been arranged and 44 platoons of police will be deployed. The entire town will be under CCTV surveillance.
As per reports, an air of religious fervour is prevailing in the holy city for the inauguration of Srimandir Parikrama Prakalpa. Adhibas Yajna was going on while Maha Yajna will begin tomorrow.
It was stated that as per auspicious moments calculated from the horoscope of Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, rituals like Surya Puja, Bramhana Baran, and Deba parayan will start from 7 am on Monday.
Devi Rajguru, the representative of the Gajapati Maharaja, said,”Vedadhyais will recite four Vedas near the four gates of the temple. The Vedacharya and Vedadhyais will be ordained. Besides, Srisukta and Purusasukta will be recited tomorrow.”
Keeping a large congregation of devotees from various parts of the country in view, three parking lots have been put in place. A multi-stoyred parking lot has been constructed at Medical Chhak at a cost of Rs 81.63 core. The parking lot has come up over 3 acres of land. The parking lot can accommodate 500 four-wheelers and 500 bikes.
Besides, Sri Jagannath Ballabh Pilgrimage centre has been set up over 7000 square/ft land and it can provide parking facilities to 300 bikes and 1400 four-wheelers. The parking lot at Sangam spreading over 43 acres of land will accommodate 429 buses, 549 cars, 258 auto rickshaws and 1054 bikes.
Collector Samarth Verma said, “The work of Sri Marg and Sri Setu has been completed. A trial run on the Srisetu will be done tomorrow.”
As part of security arrangements, 44 platoons of police personnel along with K-9 teams will be deployed in the city along with surveillance and bomb-defusing teams. The city will be under surveillance of 135 CCTVs fixed at different locations of the city.
Ashish Singh, Central range DIG, said that technology will be used for security. Face recognition system will keep a vigil on all devotees while special security will be done on the inauguration day as 20 more platoons of police will be deployed.”
Amid all such preparations, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has been on its toes to manage hospitality to invited guests coming for the inauguration.
Brahmins of four Vedas - Rig, Yajur, Sama and Atharva – will soleminse Yajna on Badadanada.
On Saturday, Pracharak, Upa Pracharak, Mandalacharya and the representative of Puri king completed Ankuraropan niti while Ankura Pujan, Yajna Adhibasa, Mandala Sthapana, Dhwaja and Torna Sthapana will be organised on Sunday.
Pandit Suryanaryan Das, Pustakacharya said, "Ankuraropan niti was performed at Yajna Sthala. At night, gupta puja of Ankuraropan niti will be performed.
Pracharak Pandit Biswambar Das said that Ankuraropan will also be orgnaised while Yajna Adhibasa karma will be completed by 5 pm on Sunday.
On the other hand, prominent guests will come from various parts of the country and abroad, it was learnt.
About 80 guests including the priests of 12 Jyotirlinga temples, the priest of Pasupatinath temple in Nepal and the representative of the Nepal king have given their consent to attend the inauguration ceremony.
Besides, over 150 guests from over 150 temples will come to Puri. Niladri Nivas, Purusottam Bhakta Bivas, Brundabati Bhakta Nivas, Jagannath Ballabh Bhakta Nivas and various hotels have been booked for the guests.
SJTA Administrator Rajan Kumar Das said that necessary arrangements have been made while guest houses and hotels have been booked for the guests
Some works of the Prakalpa and some of the works from Srisetu to Sridanda are yet to be completed. Sub-collector Bhabataran Sahu said that these works will be completed while police will start a mock drill tomorrow or the next day.
The district administration had earlier assured that all the works of the Srimandir Parikrama Project would be completed by January 12. However, many works are yet to be completed. As per reports, paver blocks are still being installed on 800 metres of Sri Marg. Moreover, a huge amount of sand is still piled on the spot.
Several local residents have alleged that as Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik will cross Sri Marg on his way to Srimandir to inaugurate the Srimandir Parikrama Project on January 17, effort is underway to complete the project by any means as soon as possible while compromising the quality of work.
“The administration is trying to finish the project in haste ahead of its opening on January 17. However, the quality of the work is very poor. We are not satisfied with the quality of work,” said Laxmidhar Sahu, a local resident.
Similarly, the construction work of the welcome gate of ‘Sri Setu’ is yet to be completed as per the set target. However, taking stock of the situation on the spot, Puri Collector Samarth Verma said that Sri Marg work will be completed either on Friday night or by Saturday.
“Sri Marg work will be completed either on Friday night or by Saturday. Paver block work has almost been completed. Streetlights will be set up soon. Sri Setu work has been fully completed. We have done all the beautification and cleaning work of Srimandir Parikrama Project,” said Verma.
A target was set for Odisha Bridge & Construction Corporation Limited (OBCC) to hand over the fully completed Srimandir Parikrama Project to the district administration on January 11. However, the work is still going on, sources said.
As per reports, all the beautification work is being done on a war footing. While the ‘Bada Danda’ has been adorned with ‘Jhoti Chita’ (traditional Odia art), the stretch from the Yajna Mandapa towards all the four Dwaras (doors) of Srimandir has been decorated with flowers.
On the other hand, evicted vendors and businessmen have expressed their dissatisfaction over the development.
“After the eviction drive, we were assured of shops near Jagannath Ballabh. However, construction work is still going on at the place even one and a half months after the eviction. We are yet to start our business and our livelihood is at stake. We are completely helpless and clueless,” said a businessman.
However, no response has been received from the district administration regarding the allegations.
As per reports, the road that passes through the main market in Satyabadi has electric poles installed, bulbs on them, but there has been no electricity connection till now. Accidents often take place on the road in the middle of the market due to the darkness and there are reports of people losing their lives as well.
However, the most worrying thing is that criminal activities are on the rise in the area. Incidents of drug trafficking as well as extortion have been seen regularly. Drug peddlers are running their business fearlessly.
This road was built during the last Nabakalebara. New roads were made, new bridges and new electric poles were also installed. However, the government forgot to electrify the poles. Even after 10 years, Satyabadi market is in the dark.
“The road is OK, but there is no light. There are poles and they are fitted with bulbs. But there is no power supply to those poles. The road has been in dark since its construction 10 years ago,” said Prashant Khatei, a local shopkeeper.
Another local shopkeeper, Santosh Satapathy said, “We do not feel it safe to work in our shops in the night. It gets pitch dark encouraging antisocial elements to thrive. My shop has already been robbed once, a year back.”
A large number of tourists come to Satyavadi. As a result, there is a good crowd here. However, tourists fear to visit the area late at night. Because, sometimes they get robbed and cheated.
When asked, Satyabadi tahsildar feigned ignorance over the issue and assured to intimate the concerned department soon.
“We did not know about this. Thank you for making us aware. We will inform this to the concerned department,” Satyabadi Tehsildar Jayant Kumar Jaysingh said.
Similarly, Satyabadi BDO Lipsa Rai said, “If there is a problem on the road then we will speak with the NHAI and concerned department. I will instruct the officials to do whatever can be done in this connection.”
As per reports, the oustees are still longing for their age-old homestead land close to Srimandir, even though they have been compensated for the loss.
Basant Manjari Jena, one of the displaced people, bemoaned, “After losing my house and homestead land near Srimandir, I am not keeping well. Every day we used to have the darshan of Lord Jagannath. Now, we have been displaced. We will always miss the close proximity of the temple.” Basant Manjari is now living at Chhapan Chhak after building a house with the compensation fund.
Another resident Sasmita Lenka’s house was near the temple. After being evicted from there, she is residing in her new house located at Loknath Road. “My house was close to Srimandir and my family had the advantage of having darshan of the deities any time of the day. But that vantage has gone now after we relocated elsewhere. The administration has rehabilitated us at such a place that we have lost the link with the temple,” Sasmita lamented.
Like Basant Manjari and Sasmita, many others in the pilgrim city after being evicted to other places are still reminiscing about their old homestead land.
They have also frowned upon the alleged apathy of the administration towards their sacrifice for the project. The administration has not even thought it wise to extend an invitation to them to attend the inauguration ceremony, they lamented.
“All displaced people had been assured of identity cards, which have not been provided till date,” they rued.
Another oustee, Krushnachandra Lenka suggested, “Our sacrifice for the project will be forgotten. There should be plaques which should display our names and addresses at the project so that people can know our sacrifice.”
When asked, Collector Samarth Verma evaded questions about the issues of the displaced.
However, Rupala was eventually rescued two hours after his boat was stranded. BJP National spokesperson Sambit Patra was also reportedly on the stranded boat.
As per reports, the Minister along with other officials were on their way on two boats from Barkul to Satapada to participate in Sagar Parikrama programme at Arakhakuda. The Minister was being ferried from OTDC guest house at around 4.15 pm. They were supposed to reach Satapada around 6 to 6.30 pm and attend Sagar Parikrama programme at Arakhakuda.
However, when the Minister didn’t reach at the programme after a long time, the organisers tried to trace his boat only to find that it ferried along a wrong route. Later, they came to know that the boats got stranded as the fans of the motors got struck with a net. The incident reportedly happened as both the boats came in the wrong direction and didn’t find the proper channel to reach Satapada.
Later, with the help of another two boats the Minister and others were somehow rescued.
However, Puri district administration was allegedly clueless about the incident.
The visual created a flutter among thousands of devotees of Lord Jagannath and several netizens as they suspected that the lady carrying a pack of ‘Prasad’ must have entered the 12th-century shrine.
As per sources, the foreign lady is suspected to be a devotee of the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON). However, nothing in this regard has been confirmed yet.
Now question mark has been raised on how the foreign citizen managed to enter that place which is inside the barricade in front of ‘Singha Dwara’, as found in the video clip.
Though her suspected entry did not cause any security threat, the security personnel at Srimandir drew flak for failing to stop her alleged entrance.
However, the official who is in charge of the security of Srimandir has refuted the allegation about the suspected entry of the foreign lady inside the Hindu temple.
Meanwhile, no comments could be obtained from the temple administration in this regard.
Notably, Srimandir in Puri is off limits to non-Hindus.
To welcome 2024, the internationally acclaimed sand artist sculpted this huge sand sculpture. He used several types of flowers like marigolds and roses to make his art colourful as well as attractive.
What needs a mention is the creation of details like ‘Nakachana’, ‘Hridaya Padak’, ‘Kara Pallab’ in the sculpture. The sand artist also wrote ‘Jay Jagannath’ on his art.
Also Read: Sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik urges Odisha CM to protect ancient artworks in Puri
This sand art has been drawing huge crowds who thronged the pilgrim city to welcome the New Year.
Notably, the Padma Shri recipient sand artist created the biggest-ever sand sculpture of Santa Claus at Puri beach on December 24. The sculpture made of sand and onions to celebrate Christmas created a world record after it was placed in the World Records Book of India.
As per reports, the sculpture was 40 ft high, 100 ft long, and 20 ft wide and was made of sand and two tonnes of onions. The colossal sand sculpture took eight days for a team of 32 students led by Sudarsan to complete. The massive sand art had then drawn huge crowds at the beach.
Along with new restrictions, a new darshan system will also be put in place. Devotees will not have to wait under the sun in queues for hours for darshan of the deities. They will have the facility of going under AC shed to Srimandir from Marichikote chhak. The shed has been equipped with drinking water and makeshift toilets. Besides, there are sitting arrangements inside the shed.
All the above-said restrictions will be strictly enforced from New Year's Day. Male devotees are required to dress decently -- to wear traditional attire, pants and shirts. Similarly, female devotees should come wearing sarees and salwar suits. Those coming in half pants, ripped jeans, and sleeveless shirts will not be allowed into the shrine. Flowers and Puja items in polythene packets will not be allowed.
The information centre of the Srimandir Temple Administration (SJTA) has been making people aware of these restrictions through public address system.
A woman devotee observed that people wearing Western dresses should not be allowed inside the temple. “Women devotees coming to the temple should refrain from wearing Western dresses,” she added.
“The devotees should not consume paan and ghutka inside the temple. They should not carry polythene bags. All should abide by the restrictions. We seek your help. May Lord Jagannath keep you healthy,” said SJTA administration Ranjan Das. Another devotee welcomed such restrictions by the temple administration.
On the other hand, despite various facilities, devotees are deprived of smooth darshan of the deities inside the shrine because of crowding and suffocating atmosphere. An elderly devotee was unhappy due to unprecedented crowding inside the temple. She could not have the darshan of the deities.
Collector Samarth Burma said, “We are trying to ensure all rituals are solemnized smoothly.”
On the other hand, in view of the huge rush of devotees on New Year's Day, tight security arrangements have been made in Puri. As many as 90 platoons of police will be deployed on the day. Traffic restrictions will be effected from the midnight of Sunday. No vehicle zone will be announced from Marichikote Chhak while a green corridor will be made for ambulances.
Central range DIG, Ashish Singh said that 20 DSPs, over 50 inspectors and nearly 140 ASIs will be deployed for security. They were briefed about their duties and responsibilities.
BJP state president, Manmohan Samal, BJP national spokesperson Sambit Patra, BJP’s executive body member Om Prakash Mishra, and Puri district BJP President Ashrit Pattanik attended the programme.
The Bharat Sankalp vehicles were given a rousing welcome by the villagers with traditional Horse Dance and Hulu Huli (Ululation).
After the rousing welcome, PM Narendra Modi's message was delivered in which he spoke about the welfare schemes of the central government for the development of people and about the upcoming schemes to be launched for the welfare of people.
Through the Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra, PM Modi urged people to raise their voices against the irregularities of the Odisha government in the distribution of houses under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY). He also informed that the beneficiaries who have not yet received their pucca houses under the PMAY should write to the local Nodal officer to get their issues addressed.
“Within 2047, India will emerge as the strongest national in the world. To fulfil that dream, every sector needs to be developed. Through Viksit Bharat Sankalp Yatra people will know how the centre is working for them and will report their issues. Through the Bharat Sankalp vehicles PM Modi is interacting with people in different areas,” said Odisha BJP President, Manmohan Samal.
As per reports, the holy city of Puri is bracing up for the grand inauguration on January 17, 2024.
A delegation comprising Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief Ranjan Das and Chhattisa Nijog Nayak Janadarn Pattajoshi Mohapatra from Puri extended an invitation to Lord Lingaraj in Bhubaneswar, the presiding deity of Ekamra Kshetra.
The servitors of Lord Lingaraj accorded the delegation a warm welcome amid traditional music and songs. Attractive jhotis and chittas were drawn on the temple yard. The team was escorted into the sanctum sanctorum of the temple where Lord Lingaraj was offered an invitation card along with coconuts, betel leaves, and maharda.
Speaking to the media, Srimandir servitor Ramchandra Dasmohapatra said, “We all servitors came from Srikshetra to invite Lord Lingaraj.”
Kamalakant Badu, a servitor of Lord Lingaraj said, “Badu sevayats (servitors) received the team from Srikshetra and offered ‘Jalalagi’ to the Lord.”
SJTA administrator Ranjan Das said that 13 teams moved out from Srikshetra to give invitations to the shrines and temples in Odisha while 17 other teams will go out of the state to distribute invitations to major religious shrines. The temple administration has constituted 30 teams to distribute invitations at the shrines across the country.
Speaking to the media, the president of Odisha BJP, Manmohan Samal observed, “Why did Kamiya Jani enter Srimandir? Who facilitated her entry into it and why? There is a need for a debate on the issue.”
The BJP veteran also pointed out that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi had tried to enter the Puri temple in the past, but she could not. “The temple has its own sets of special rituals, distinct traditional rules and regulations, restrictions and provisions on the matter of entry which are always respected. However, such laws have been violated by Kamiya Jani. Many have failed on this front,” he added.
Samal also stated that former BJD MP Pyarimohan Mohapatra had earlier made a controversial statement about Srimandir, for which he had to face severe flak and opposition from various quarters across the state and the country as well. Finally, Pyari Babu had to tender his apologies, he said.
The entry of the YouTuber into Shree Jagannath temple will be the topic of discussion and debate from the bottom to the top level and there is a need for it, the BJP leader said.
However, no comments have been received from the state government or the temple administration in this regard.
On the other hand, Kamiya Jani has refuted the allegation against her through her blog post. Asserting that she has been a practising Hindu, she denied having violated any laws related to the entry into the temple.
The name of the festival ‘Byanjana’ in Odia means a variety of food while Dwadashi refers to the 12th day (Dwadashi) of the Sukla Paksha or waxing phase of the moon in the month of Margashira (from mid-December to mid-January). This festival has a lot to do with our traditional system of giving importance to nutrition for human health.
As per reports, 851 types of dishes including a variety of cakes, dal, curries, saag (fried green leaves), kheer, desserts, rice, khata(sour dishes), and muan were served to Sri Krishna at Mata Mutt, that belong to the Goudiya community (Vaishnavites). Such a huge number of dishes are in fact a gourmet’s delight.
Subal Charan Das Maharaj, the Mahant of the mutt, said that the Byanjana Dwadashi is an age-old tradition followed by this mutt. “Over 851 varieties of dishes have been prepared. In the long menu, there are about 21 types of rice and 17 types of dal. Mother Jasoda had prepared a variety of cuisines for her son Lord Sri Krishna. As a part of this festival, devotees from various parts of the state wearing new clothes prepared a number of dishes in the wee hours,” he observed.
Hundreds of devotees had the delight of partaking of the prasad at the mutt.
It is believed that the festival dates back to the Mahabharata era. Usually, Vaishnavites celebrate the festival to perpetuate the memory of an episode as explained in the Mahabharata wherein Yashoda is concerned to find her son Krishna looking pale and weak. She realises that lack of proper nutrition is the reason for his frail constitution.
As per reports, the much-awaited Srimandir Parikrama Project will be dedicated to people on January 17.
In the meeting, a discussion was held about uniting all the places related to the Srimandir Heritage Corridor project. The history, tradition and culture of those places were also discussed.
Chief Administrator of Shri Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) Ranjan Kumar Das, members of the temple administration committee, Mahantas (chiefs) of all the mutts and researchers of Jagannath culture took part in the meeting.
As per reports, the invitation will be sent to the Holy Trinity at Srimandir in a grand procession following all the traditional rituals on Thursday. Subsequently, invitations will be sent to the Prime Minister, Home Minister, Defence Minister and all the dignitaries of India and Odisha in a phased manner.
“Before the start of any auspicious and important work, Odia people seek blessings from Lord Jagannath by sending Him an invitation first. Following that tradition, the Puri district administration will send an invitation to Lord Jagannath before the dedication of the Srimandir Parikrama Project to the devotees. The invitation will be sent in a grand procession as per the traditional ritual,” said senior servitor Damodara Mahasuara.
“After the invitation to Lord Jagannath, we will send invitations to Shankaracharyas of all the four dhams and priests of 12 Jyotirlingas,” he added.
“As per the tradition, Lord Jagannath will be invited first for the dedication of the Srimandir Parikrama Project to the people. Let Lord Jagannath take care of his work himself,” said another senior servitor.