Puri Administration launches ‘Shree Jagannatha Dham’ app for devotees

In a tech-driven step to assist devotees, the Puri district administration launched the ‘Shree Jagannatha Dham’ app on Friday. The mobile platform will offer comprehensive updates on the 12th-century temple’s rituals, schedules, and special events like Rath Yatra, improving the pilgrim experience.

Also Read: Demand to rename Puri railway station after ‘Shree Jagannath Dham-Puri’ gains momentum

According to an official announcement made via X (formerly Twitter), the app will provide detailed information about the Nitis (rituals) of Mahaprabhu Jagannath, including specific timings and schedules. This app will help devotees coming to Puri to plan their visits and spiritual engagements more effectively.

The app also covers updates on the world-famous Rath Yatra and all other key events and celebrations at the Jagannath Temple, offering devotees seamless access to verified temple information.

App combines technology with heritage

This digital initiative aligns with the administration’s broader goal of combining technology with heritage to improve the spiritual journey for millions who visit Puri every year.

Taking to the official X handle, Collector and District Magistrate Puri wrote, “Jai Jagannath 🙌 A new app ‘Shree Jagannatha Dham’ has been launched for the facilitation of devotees. The services include:
-Exact Niti status & timings
-Tentative waiting time at queues
-Arrangements for Rath Yatra and all special occasions.”

“Feedback for improvement is welcome,” the district administration added.

Worth mentioning, the demand to rename Puri railway station as ‘Shree Jagannatha Dham Puri Railway Station’ resurfaced on Wednesday, with the Jagannath Sena (a local outfit) submitting a memorandum to the Prime Minister and Railway Minister.

The outfit argues that the railway station’s ongoing renovation marks an ideal moment for expected change.

Citing examples of various other railway stations across India whose names have been changed to reflect the cultural or historical significance, Jagannath Sena questioned why a similar gesture has not been extended to Puri.

Jagannath Sena emphasised that since Puri is internationally renowned as the abode of Lord Jagannath, the railway station’s name should reflect this spiritual identity.

The outfit pointed out that the railway station is currently undergoing major renovation, presenting an ‘appropriate occasion’ for the name change to take place.

Must Read: Puri railway station will be developed into world-class station, says Railway Minister

“The renaming would strengthen Puri’s cultural and religious identity and enhance its recognition as a major pilgrimage destination,” Jagannath Sena convenor Priyadarshan Patnaik said.