Bhubaneswar: A 50-member delegation including members of the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee, senior servitors, officials of Temple Administration (SJTA) and district administration on Tuesday formally invited Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik for the inauguration of the heritage corridor project slated to be held in the pilgrim town on January 17.
The delegation met the CM at his residence Naveen Niwas in Bhubaneswar amid a spiritual and serene atmosphere with the vibrating chanting of Jay Jagannath.
The delegation first visited Shri Lingaraj Temple in the state capital and invited the Lord before visiting the Naveen Niwas.
Expressing gratitude for the invitation, the Chief Minister offered ‘gua-chaula’ to Lord Jagannath as a mark of acceptance of the invitation.
Describing the Parikrama project as the work of servitors, and people of Puri, Naveen said the state government will provide all necessary support for the sacred work.
The servitors thanked the Chief Minister for the Parikrama project and steps taken for the development of Puri town.
Stating that the Chief Minister has ‘scripted history’ by implementing the heritage corridor project, they said Naveen’s name will be recorded forever. They wished Naveen’s long life saying that Lord Jagannath’s blessings are with him.
They said 5T and Nabin Odisha Chairman V K Pandian is also working hard under the guidance of the Chief Minister. He has brought a transformation in Odisha, the servitors said.
While discussing with temple servitors, Pandian said that the Parikrama project has become a reality due to the sacrifice of Puri people. Pandian said that you all will be remembered for your extraordinary sacrifice.
Pandian narrated his personal experience of how during the work of the Parikrama project, many difficulties were overcome with the blessings of Lord Jagannath. Now, the work is progressing smoothly, he added.
He said that the Chief Minister will do whatever is necessary for the development of Puri and the welfare of the priests.
The Chief Minister honoured all the servants with an uttariya (a traditional scarf).
The corridor project has been initiated with an aim to ensure smooth darshan of devotees along with the security of the temple and creating a divine experience for pilgrims.
The Chief Minister had laid the foundation stone of the project on November 24, 2021 in the presence of Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, saints, representatives of various political parties and eminent persons.
In the same way, people of all political parties and all sections of the society will be involved in the inauguration event.
