Srimandir Admin Lifts Darshan Curb On Sundays, Mahaprasad Partaking Allowed

Puri: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration on Wednesday allowed further relaxations for the darshan of the Holy Trinity by lifting the restrictions on the entry of the devotees into the shrine every Sunday.

Earlier, the temple authorities had put restrictions on the darshan every Sunday for sanitisation works in the shrine in view of Covid pandemic.

Speaking to reporters, SJTA Chief Administrator Krishan Kumar said that devotees can now have darshan of the Holy Trinity every day from February 12. This apart, devotees will now also be allowed to partake Mahaprasad on Anand Bazaar. The revised rules will come into effect from February 12.

"Efforts are being made so that not only Puri residents but people from other parts can have darshan of the deities definitely by 6 am every day," said Kumar.

Meanwhile, the standard operating procedures for the same has been released:

1. The Temple will remain open on all days of the Week. This will be as per the schedule of Niti on different days. The public darshan of Lords will start latest by 6 AM, unless notified.
2. It is mandatory for all pilgrims to wear Masks at all times, both inside & outside of the Temple.
3. Devotees should sanitize their hands before entering the Temple.
4. Devotees should maintain physical distance at all times as per COVID-19 guidelines.
5. Devotees are requested not to touch Statues or Idols inside the Temple.
6. Chewing of Tobacco Paan and spitting inside the Temple premises is strictly prohibited. A fine of Rs 1000 will be levied for each violation.
7. There is a complete ban on carrying polythene bags inside the temple. A fine of Rs 100 will be levied for each violation.
8. Lighting of Deepas inside the Temple by the Devotees will be permitted at designated places only.
9. The Devotees will be allowed to partake Mahaprasad inside Ananda Bazar and Temple premises at designated places only.