Bhubaneswar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has raised concerns over the naming of the newly established Jagannath Temple at Digha, West Bengal, as “Jagannath Dham,” citing its potential to hurt religious sentiments and dilute the unique identity of Shree Jagannath Dham in Puri.
In a letter addressed to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee today, Majhi urged the West Bengal government to reconsider the use of the term in official and promotional contexts.
Majhi emphasized that Shree Jagannath Dham in Puri, one of the Char Dhams of Hinduism, holds unparalleled religious, spiritual, and cultural significance for millions of devotees worldwide.
“The name ‘Jagannath Dham’ is sacrosanct and intrinsically linked to Puri. Its use for the Digha temple risks causing confusion among devotees and undermining Puri’s historic legacy,” he wrote, noting that the naming could offend the sentiments of Odisha’s people and pilgrims.
While acknowledging the devotion to Lord Jagannath in West Bengal, Majhi expressed apprehension that the term’s usage could erode the distinct heritage of Puri’s revered shrine.
He requested the West Bengal government to refrain from using “Jagannath Dham” in the Digha temple’s official communications and promotional materials to uphold inter-state respect and cultural sensitivity.
Majhi expressed hope that West Bengal would address the concerns promptly, ensuring clarity for devotees and safeguarding Puri’s spiritual legacy.
