Bengal : Mamata inaugurates Jagannath Dham temple at Digha
Kolkata, Apr 30 (UNI) West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday inaugurated the majestic Jagannath Dham temple in Digha, nearly 185 km from Kolkata.
The temple is a striking replica of the renowned Jagannath Temple in Puri which is just little more than 345 km from this coastal town in East Midnapore district.
The inauguration marked the culmination of years of planning and craftsmanship, with the temple's consecration ceremony, or 'Pran Pratistha', also taking place amidst tight security.
Crafted in the traditional Kalinga architectural style, the temple has been constructed using pink sandstone from Rajasthan, with over 800 artisans contributing to its creation. Echoing the design of the 12th-century Puri temple, the Digha shrine features elements such as the Bhoga Mandap, Nata Mandap, Jagamohan, and Garbhagriha. However, unlike its Puri counterpart, the Digha temple will be open to people of all religions, including non-Hindus and foreigners.
The temple complex, spread over 20 acres, includes grand entrances like the Singhadwar, Byaghradwar, Hastidwar, and Ashwadwar. It also houses a shrine dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and a separate Bhogshala for preparing sacred offerings for Lord Jagannath.
Developed by the West Bengal government at a cost of ₹250 crore, the temple is expected to become a major pilgrimage and tourist hub.
In a post on X, Banerjee reflected on the momentous occasion: 'Today, as the sacred Dhwaja rose above the Jagannath Temple in Digha, I witnessed a vision conceived in 2018 come to life. With the Maha Yajna complete, we wait with bated breath for the Lord of the Universe to grace His humble abode by the sea. May His presence usher in harmony, strength, and enduring peace for all.'
The consecration was performed with great reverence, using sacred water from pilgrimage sites across the country. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including political leaders and prominent figures from West Bengal's music and film industries.
On the eve of the inauguration, a Maha Yajna and puja were conducted in a temporary hut in front of the temple, with 57 devotees from Puri's Jagannath Temple and 17 monks from ISKCON participating.
Banerjee, speaking ahead of the inauguration, described the temple as a 'glorious testament to Bengal's enduring devotion and rich cultural heritage.'
She added, 'Every intricately carved stone, and every prayer that shall rise from its sanctum, will embody the deep faith, unity, and enduring spirit of our people.'
To further celebrate the temple's legacy, the West Bengal government plans to organize an annual 'Ratha Yatra' in Digha, adding to the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of the coastal town.
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