TV
Amid the Odisha government’s efforts to obtain a geographical indication (GI) tag for Puri’s famous ‘Khaja’ (a local sweet), concerns over its declining quality are coming to the fore, raising questions about its impact on Puri Srimandir devotees, who use it as a dry prasad of the deities.
The mere mention of 'Khaja' from Puri is enough to evoke a sense of longing across India. Known for its unique taste, this sweet holds a special place within the Sukhili Bhoga (dry prasad) tradition at Lord Jagannath temple.
Also Read: Stern action for any deviation in Puri Srimandir rituals, says Odisha Law Minister
Pilgrims visiting the Srimandir in Puri often purchase Khaja as a token to share this divine offering with family and friends back home.
However, recent warnings advise caution when buying Khaja from vendors outside the temple complex due to the risk of counterfeit sweets being sold as Sukhili Bhoga.
In a startling revelation, certain unscrupulous vendors have been discovered manipulating digital scales, decreasing the actual weight by 350 to 400 grams per kilogram and cheating customers. This has led to warnings from food safety officers and a commitment from Puri's Superintendent of Police (SP) to take action against such fraudulent practices.
Puri hosts around 300 Khaja shops along streets leading to the temple, offering varieties at prices ranging from Rs 150 to Rs 500 per kilogram. Concerns remain about the quality of ingredients, such as oil and ghee, used in the preparation, with little information provided by sellers or authorities.
The District Collector has clarified that only Khaja purchased within Ananda Bazaar, the temple's premises, is considered Sukhili Bhoga.
Any attempts by vendors to sell Khaja as temple offerings outside the temple will be met with strict action.
Must Read: Mahaprasad prices at Puri Jagannath temple to be regulated soon
“We will form a joint team comprising the district administration and weight & measure officials and check the calibration of weighing machines. We will enforce the law and take strong action against persons found to be guilty,” Puri SP Vinit Agrawal said.
Meanwhile, the State government's efforts to secure a GI tag aim to highlight Khaja's distinctive identity as part of Lord Jagannath's offerings. However, without rigorous quality control, this cherished sweet's reputation may diminish, sparking doubts about its authenticity and overall quality.
