Jharpada Durga Puja venue changed after 14 years ‘amid internal rift’

For the first time in 14 years, the much-celebrated Jharpada Durga Puja will not be held at its traditional puja mandap. Instead, this year’s celebrations will take place at Melana Padia (a large ground in the locality), Jharpada Durga Puja Samiti sources said on Monday.

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However, a dispute between two local groups persists over puja organising rights.

Due to the disagreement, two separate puja committees have emerged, making it allegedly impossible to conduct the puja at the original site, located near the main road and jail area. Though earlier statements suggested the relocation was for logistical reasons, insiders say internal rivalry led to the shift.

Jharpada Durga Puja Samiti advisor Jagannath Pradhan stated, “If the Goddess wishes, we will come together again and celebrate this festival of brotherhood as one.”

As claimed by Pradhan, the puja site can be relocated to a new place (Melana Padia) every 14 years, and this year marks that scheduled shift.

The highlight this year will be a grand 120-ft wide and 90-ft high Torana (decorative gate) showcasing the glory of Buddhist heritage, particularly inspired by a historic Buddhist fort.

For crowd control and safety, 50 security personnel, CCTV surveillance, drone monitoring, and five volunteer teams will be deployed. Seven special entry points are being set up for persons with disabilities (PWDs).

“This year, the Jharpada Durga Puja Samiti is organising the auspicious Durga Puja at Jharpada Melana Padia. Besides, the Torana has been named as Boudhagada Fort, based on historical background,” Jagannath Pradhan said.

“As per tradition, after celebrating the puja at a particular place for 14 years, it can either be shifted to a new place or be continued at the same place for the next 14 years. Hence, we have decided to shift the puja this year to Melana Padia,” the Samiti advisor added.

Reported By: Saroj and Jyoti