Replica Jagannath Temple in Digha Sparks Controversy

Replica Jagannath Temple in Digha Sparks Controversy

Why in the News ?

The inauguration of a replica Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal has triggered opposition from Puri Temple servitors over the ritual practices, terminology, and iconography, raising concerns about religious authenticity and potential impact on Puri’s pilgrimage economy.

Replica Jagannath Temple in Digha Sparks Controversy

Digha Temple Inaugurated: Structure and Significance

  • Inaugurated by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee on Akshaya Tritiya.
  • Built at a cost of ₹250 crore on 24 acres in Purba Medinipur, 350 km from Puri.
  • 213-foot-high sandstone structure, mimicking the 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Kalingan architectural style.
  • Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Mahalaxmi.
  • Construction began in May 2022; project announced in 2019.

Objections from Puri Temple Servitors

  • Suar Mahasuar nijog and Puspalaka nijog urged servitors to avoid rituals at the Digha temple.
  • Concerns over replicating traditional Puri rituals in the new temple.
  • Use of “Dham” and depiction of the Nilachakra in West Bengal ads questioned.
  • Puri servitors say Jagannath idols must be of wood (Daru Brahma), not stone as in Digha.

Religious and Economic Implications

  • Fear that Digha shrine may divert Bengali pilgrims from Puri.
  • Bengal contributes ~14% of Odisha’s domestic tourists, many visiting Jagannath Temple.
  • Tour operators caution on long-term tourism impact if Puri’s infrastructure and devotee experience are not improved.

Digha Jagannath Temple vs. Puri Shrine: Key Facts

About Digha Jagannath Temple:

● Built at a cost of ₹250 crore on 20 acres in Digha, West Bengal.
●Inauguration: Scheduled on 30 April 2025 by CM Mamata Banerjee.
●Designed as a replica of the 12th-century Puri Temple.
●Aims to boost tourism and give international recognition to Digha.
● Promotes the ideal of “Shorbo Dhormo Somonnoy” (universal religious harmony).

Jagannath Puri Temple Highlights

●Built in the 12th century by King Anatavarman Chodaganga Deva.
● Known as “Yamanika Tirtha”, where the power of Yama (death) is believed nullified.
●Part of the Char Dham pilgrimage circuit (Badrinath, Dwaraka, Puri, Rameswaram).
●Called the “White Pagoda” due to its appearance.
●Features distinct Kalingan architecture, with multiple towers and shrines.

Rituals and Cultural Significance

●Hosts the annual Rath Yatra, a major religious procession.
●Offers Mahaprasad, a sacred food cooked in temple kitchens and shared with devotees.