Sudarsan Pattnaik demands opening of one more gate of Puri Srimandir

At a time when the demand for re-opening all the four ‘dwaras’ (doors) of Puri Srimandir is gaining momentum, Shree Jagannath Temple Management Committee member and eminent sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has demanded to open at least one more ‘dwara’ of the temple besides ‘Singhadwara’ (Lions gate) for the local residents.

Taking the emotional aspect of Puri residents with the Lord, another door of Srimandir should be opened for them besides ‘Singhadwara, tweeted Pattnaik.

Pattnaik further wrote that a decision regarding the opening of other ‘dwaras’ may be taken as per the discussion in the sub- committee which has been formed with some members of Chhatisa Nijog.

Pattnaik also stated if at least one more door is not opened for Puri residents, he will stage a sit-in before the ‘Paschimadwara’ of Srimandir from tomorrow and offer his prayer to Lord Jagannath.

“I have already written about my request to the administration. During the Covid-19 pandemic, three doors of Srimandir were closed for the devotees, but till date, the same has not been opened. With respect to the local people’s emotion and as a citizen of Puri, I am requesting the administration again to open at least one door of Srimandir for local people immediately. Other doors may be opened after the discussion in the committee,” said Pattnaik.

“If one door will not be opened, I will sit in front of the Paschima dwara to pray to the Lord from tomorrow,” he added.