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United News of India
07-05-2025
- United News of India
Jagannath temple in Digha becomes main source of tourist attraction
Kolkata, May 7 (UNI) Though steeped in controversy since its inauguration — ranging from allegations of using surplus neem wood from the Puri temple for idol carving to claims of dedicating it as Jagannath Dham — the Jagannath temple in Digha has drawn unprecedented crowds, becoming the primary attraction for visitors to the coastal town. With more than one lakh visitors on Sunday (May 3) — the highest since its inauguration on April 30 — the temple has seen a cumulative footfall of around five lakh over the past week, making it obvious that the controversy hardly has any impact on the steady stream of visitors coming to see this architectural marvel. 'We cannot say the actual number of visitors to the temple, but it is huge. According to the police, it is not less than five lakhs. The visitors are coming all through the day,' a senior official of the temple administration told UNI. 'There is a huge influx of visitors in the temple and we are taking all steps to ensure that the visitors are safe and secure. The number is really huge on Sundays and holidays. We are also keeping a close watch so that there is no chaos inside the temple premise. Huge number of police and civic volunteers are deployed to maintain law and order,' District magistrate of East Midnapore Purnendu Majhi said. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee officially inaugurated the grand Jagannath Dham temple in Digha, located around 185 km from Kolkata, on April 30. This newly constructed temple is a magnificent architectural replica of the famous Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha, which lies just over 345 km from Digha. The inauguration marked the completion of several years of meticulous planning and skilled craftsmanship. The event was also highlighted by the 'Pran Pratistha' ceremony, a sacred consecration ritual held with high security and reverence. The Jagannath Dham temple in Digha has been built in the traditional Kalinga architectural style, known for its intricate carvings and towering spires. The structure is made from pink sandstone sourced from Rajasthan, and more than 800 artisans contributed their expertise to bring the temple to life. The design of the temple closely mirrors that of the 12th century Jagannath temple in Puri, incorporating iconic features such as the Bhoga Mandap (hall for offering food), Nata Mandap (dancing hall), Jagamohan (assembly hall), and the Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum). However, in a significant departure from its inspiration, the Digha temple welcomes people of all religions, including non-Hindus and foreigners, thereby promoting inclusivity and cultural harmony. Spanning a vast 20-acre area, the temple complex is not only a religious site but also an architectural marvel. It features imposing gateways such as the Singhadwar (lion gate), Byaghradwar (tiger gate), Hastidwar (elephant gate), and Ashwadwar (horse gate). Within the complex, there is also a shrine dedicated to Goddess Lakshmi and a separate Bhogshala, a kitchen facility for preparing offerings for Lord Jagannath. Developed at a cost of Rs 250 crore by the West Bengal government, this temple is poised to become a significant spiritual destination and a major attraction for tourists and pilgrims alike. UNI XC PRS
United News of India
30-04-2025
- United News of India
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. UNI XC SJC
