‘It is not a Jagannath temple': Consecration of Jagannath temple replica in WB triggers row

Controversy arises over a new Lord Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, with Puri servitors opposing its consecration. Allegedly, the choice of stone idols (contrary to Daru Brahma) for the temple has prompted debate, given the traditional use of wooden idols of the deities in Puri.

‘It is not a Jagannath temple': Consecration of Jagannath temple replica in WB triggers row

Puri Daitapati Nijog secretary with West Bengal CM and others

time

A new temple dedicated to Lord Jagannath, emulating the famous Puri Srimandir, is being constructed in Digha of neighbouring West Bengal. The venture has sparked controversy as traditional Sevayat (servitor) communities from the Puri temple, particularly Suar-Mahasuar and Puspalaka servitors, have cautioned against visiting the replicated shrine.

Also Read: Suar-Mahasuar Nijog warns members against Jagannath temple consecration in Digha

Despite these warnings, around 70 representatives from Daitapati Nijog, led by its secretary, were present at the consecration ceremony in Digha, causing strong displeasure among the Puri temple servitor communities as well as Jagannath devotees.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is to inaugurate the new temple on Akshaya Tritiya (tomorrow), seeing it as a means to boost international tourism. 

Contrarily, Suvendu Adhikari, the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in West Bengal, opposed the project. He questioned the need for a government-funded temple when the sanctity of Puri could be impacted.

What led to the controversy?

The new temple, built with a budget of around Rs 250 crore, spans 20 acres near the New Digha Railway Station. It promises to emulate the architectural grandeur of the original temple, complete with 'stone-made idols of the Holy Trinity', as a unique feature.

Critics expressed concerns that this development may draw visitors away from Puri, potentially diminishing its tourism flow and cultural heritage significance.

While the CM Banerjee contends that Digha temple will enhance the state’s international appeal, particularly given its seaside locale, the implications for tourism dynamics between Odisha and West Bengal remain a topic of ongoing debate.

“It is not a Jagannath temple but a cultural centre. Usually, temples, mosques, churches, and gurudwaras are not built with government funds. One should not mistake it as a shrine,” West Bengal LoP, Suvendu Adhikari alleged.

Must Read: Row among servitors over rituals at Digha’s Jagannath Temple

“A Jagannath temple is built over hundreds of years. This shrine has been constructed using West Bengal’s rich architectural excellence. Digha is located near the sea, and the temple site is going to be an international tourist destination,” Mamata Banerjee stated.

Next story