Puri: Eminent sculptor Sudarsan Pattnaik has sought Gajapati Maharaja Dibya Singha Deb’s intervention over the use of word ‘Dham’ by the West Bengal government for the recently-inaugurated Jagannath temple at Digha.
“The construction of a new temple dedicated to Mahaprabhu Shree Jagannath is truly commendable and appreciated, the reference to it as ‘Jagannath Dham’ has deeply hurt the religious sentiments of millions of His (Lord Jagannath) devotees around the world. As per our sacred scriptures (Shastras), there is only one organised Jagannath Dham, which is in Puri, Odisha. Using this revered title for any other location may cause religious confusion and runs contrary to the long-standing spiritual traditions and cultural heritage of Hinduism,” Pattnaik wrote.
The former Srimandir managing committee member has also urged the King to take steps to preserve the rich Jagannath culture.
Pattnaik had earlier requested Chief Minister Mohan Mjahi to intervene in the matter, engage with his West Bengal counterpart, and take appropriate action. “According to sacred scriptures, there exists only one Jagannath Dham, which is located at Puri. Associating any other temple with the title ‘Jagannath Dham’ may lead to religious confusion and contradicts the long-standing spiritual and Hindu cultural traditions,” he wrote.
He also mentioned that a few sevayats from Puri have reportedly claimed that ‘brahma’ has been established at Digha temple, which is deeply sacred and an unique aspect of Srimandir.
While seeking investigation into the controversies, he also pointed out that the findings of government inquiry into ‘Brahma Parivartan’ (soul transfer) delay in 2015 Nabakalebara is yet to be made public.
Pattnaik had also requested West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee against using the word ‘Jagannath Dham’ for the Digha temple.
