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Odisha Launches Probe Into Digha Temple Controversy Over 'Jagannath Dham' Label

The West Bengal temple's designation as 'Jagannath Dham' and alleged use of sacred Puri wood have sparked objections from Odisha, citing cultural and religious sanctity.

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Dona Ganguly Dance Troupe performs during the inauguration of Jagannath Temple at Digha in East Medinipur on April 30 (ANI)
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Overview

  • Odisha's Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has initiated an investigation into the naming of the newly inaugurated Digha temple as 'Jagannath Dham' and claims of sacred neem wood usage from Puri's 2015 Nabakalebara ritual.
  • Religious scholars, priests, and servitors from Odisha have objected to the use of 'Jagannath Dham,' a title traditionally exclusive to Puri's 12th-century temple, citing potential cultural misrepresentation and confusion for devotees.
  • Senior Puri servitor Ramakrushna Dasmohapatra, who participated in Digha's temple inauguration, denied allegations of using leftover sacred wood and called for removing the controversial 'Dham' label.
  • Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan has emphasized that the term 'Dham' holds deep religious significance and urged West Bengal to address the matter diplomatically.
  • The controversy has taken on political undertones, with opposition parties accusing West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of leveraging the temple's inauguration for electoral gains ahead of the 2026 state assembly elections.