NewKerala.com Logo

Bengal CM urges religious unity ahead of inauguration of Digha Jagannath temple tomorrow

IANS April 29, 2025 474 views

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is set to inaugurate a new Jagannath Temple in Digha, emphasizing religious unity and cultural harmony. The temple, constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 250 crore, is modeled after the iconic Puri shrine and will feature live screenings across the state. The project, originally announced in 2018, faced delays during the COVID-19 pandemic. Opposition leader Suvendu Adhikari has raised questions about the temple's official naming, adding a political dimension to the event.

"People from different religions have already assembled at Digha. People from every religion are our guests." - Mamata Banerjee"
Kolkata, April 29: A day before the inauguration of the Lord Jagannath Temple at Digha in the East Midnapore district of West Bengal on Wednesday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, on Tuesday, reminded the people about the culture of religious unity in the country.

Key Points

1

Mamata launches Jagannath Temple modeled after Puri shrine

2

Temple cost nearly Rs 250 crore

3

Live screening planned across West Bengal

4

Opposition raises naming controversy

"People from different religions have already assembled at Digha. People from every religion are our guests. Simple religious propaganda is not enough. Religion needs to be preserved in the heart. I will be happy if the people are happy. So I am praying for all," the Chief Minister told media persons while supervising the arrangements for the inauguration event of the temple.

The Chief Minister had arrived at Digha on Monday noon only.

The temple at Digha has been modelled after the iconic Shree Jagannath Dham Temple at Puri in Odisha.

The Chief Minister claimed that the inauguration session of the temple on Wednesday will start at 2:30 p.m.

"The doors of the temple will be opened at around 3 p.m. It will be followed by a cultural programme," she said.

The arrangements have been made for the live screenings of the inaugural programme on Wednesday through giant LED screens throughout West Bengal.

The Chief Minister made the announcement of the Lord Jagannath Temple at Digha in 2018.

The work for construction of the temple slowed down during the lockdown period because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (WBHIDCO) Limited is the implementing agency for the construction of the temple.

The total cost from the taxpayers for setting up the temple is estimated at nearly Rs 250 crore.

Already controversies have arisen over the temple, with the Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, challenging the Chief Minister's claims that the temple has been modelled after the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri.

LoP Adhikari called Chief Minister Banerjee to clarify why the proposed temple at Digha has been named Jagannath Dam Cultural Centre and not Shree Jagannath Temple.

"The Chief Minister should immediately give instructions so that the name is changed from 'Jagannath Dam Cultural Centre' to 'Shree Jagannath Temple' in all the related state government documents. The name change should also be made in the tenders and documents of WBHIDCO, responsible for the construction of the proposed temple at Digha, the cost of which is borne from the state government's exchequer," the LoP claimed.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
This is such a beautiful initiative! 🙏 Religious harmony is what makes Bengal special. Can't wait to visit the temple once it opens to public. The CM's message about preserving religion in the heart is so true.
R
Rahul S.
While I appreciate the effort, I wonder if â‚ą250 crore could have been better spent on healthcare or education infrastructure. The temple looks beautiful but we must question priorities during tough economic times.
A
Ayesha M.
As a Muslim Bengali, I'm proud of our state's tradition of religious tolerance. The CM's words about all religions being welcome are heartwarming. Hope the cultural program includes diverse performances!
S
Subhash B.
The controversy about the name seems unnecessary. What matters is the devotion, not what's written on paper. Looking forward to seeing the Puri temple replica - hope they got the architecture right!
D
Debjani R.
My family in Digha says the whole town is buzzing with excitement! 🎉 The LED screens for live broadcast is a great idea so devotees across Bengal can participate. Hope the arrangements account for the expected crowds.
A
Arjun P.
The political back-and-forth is disappointing. Can't we just appreciate a new place of worship without turning it into a debate? The temple will boost tourism in Digha - that's what matters most.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Your email won't be published

Disclaimer: Comments are the opinions of users and not of this website or it's staff. News stories are provided by news agencies. We do not guarantee their accuracy. Inappropriate content may be removed. By posting, you agree to our terms.

Tags:
Mamata Banerjee Jagannath Temple West Bengal Religious Unity Digha Temple Inauguration
You May Like!