Suryakant Jena

Cuttack: At a time when Odisha government is laying out extensive plans for preservation and upliftment of various temples and historical monuments in the State, the pathetic condition of a 14th-century shrine in the district is a telling tale.

According to sources, the temple of Lord Dadhi Bamana Jew, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, situated at Kuanrpur area in Kantapada block of the district is in a state of utter dilapidation.

Built during the reign of Kapilendra Dev, the temple has suffered extensive damage over the course of last six centuries or so.

Its main complex (sanctum sanctorum) has developed many cracks due to which the presiding deity has been shifted to the Mukhasala.

Much to the surprise, the renovation of the temple was initiated by the Archaeological department way back in 2005, however it is being alleged that the project could not see the light of the day.

Local residents and tourists who visit the area have often expressed anguish alleging the apathetic attitude of the district administration and the State government despite repeated pleas for redressal of the grievance.

Haramani Panda, a devotee of the local area said while ruing the fact that its being years since the main temple has been leaking rainwater. "It is very saddening to see the condition of the presiding deity because it hurts our sentiments. If the government takes some ameliorative steps, it will be of much help," she said.

"The temple is unique in its structure and architecture as compared to other shrines and monuments. It is the responsibility of the government to take care of the centuries-old shrine," said a local historian Hansanath Sahu.

scrollToTop