Why Puri Raises Concern Over New Jagannath Temple in Digha?

The proposed construction of a new Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, has sparked serious concern among religious leaders and devotees in Puri, Odisha — the original home of Lord Jagannath. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) and servitor communities in Puri have expressed fears that replicating the sacred temple outside Odisha may affect its sanctity and hurt the sentiments of devotees who revere Puri as the Lord’s eternal abode.

The West Bengal government announced plans to build a grand Jagannath temple in Digha, a popular coastal tourist destination. Officials said the new temple aims to promote spiritual tourism and cater to pilgrims in eastern India. However, this move has met resistance from Puri, where Lord Jagannath’s original temple is not just a religious center but a deeply spiritual and historical institution.

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Religious Sentiment and Cultural Integrity at Stake

The priests and temple authorities in Puri believe that constructing a similar Jagannath temple outside of Odisha, especially one of such grandeur, could dilute the cultural and spiritual uniqueness of the original shrine. They argue that no replica can match the spiritual aura of the centuries-old Puri temple, which draws millions of devotees every year, especially during the world-famous Rath Yatra.

Moreover, temple officials worry that this new temple could confuse devotees and potentially commercialize sacred traditions. They have urged the central and state governments to consult with religious heads and ensure the sanctity of the original shrine remains untouched.

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The Odisha government has also taken note of the matter and is likely to seek more clarity from West Bengal authorities. Meanwhile, the debate continues as many call for mutual respect and preservation of regional spiritual identities.