Controversy Surrounds New Jagannath Temple in Digha

The recent inauguration of a replica Jagannath Temple in Digha, West Bengal, has sparked controversy. The temple, which mirrors the original Puri Temple, has drawn warnings from servitors of the Puri Temple against participating in its rituals. Concerns have been raised regarding the implications of this new temple on the cultural and religious significance of the original site.

Digha Temple

The Digha temple, dedicated to Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, Goddess Subhadra, and Goddess Mahalaxmi, was inaugurated on Akshaya Tritiya. Built at a cost of ₹250 crore, it stands 213 feet tall and is constructed in the Kalingan architectural style. The project commenced in May 2022, following its announcement in 2019. It is located approximately 350 km from Puri, in Purba Medinipur district.

Servitors’ Concerns

Servitors from the Puri Temple have voiced strong objections to the rituals being conducted at the Digha temple. Groups like the Suar Mahasuar nijog, responsible for preparing offerings, have issued notices discouraging participation in Digha rituals. They argue that replicating Puri’s traditional rituals at the new temple could undermine the original’s significance. The president of the Suar Mahasuar nijog brought into light the importance of maintaining the uniqueness of the Puri Temple’s practices.

The Use of ‘Dham’ and Idols

The West Bengal government’s use of the term ‘Dham’ in reference to the Digha temple has been contested. In Hinduism, there are only four recognised dhams – Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram. Servitors argue that the Digha temple’s idols, made of stone, contradict the tradition that Lord Jagannath is represented by wooden idols, known as Daru Brahma. This distinction is crucial to the identity of the Puri Temple.

Economic Implications

The emergence of the Digha temple raises concerns about its potential impact on tourism in Puri. A number of visitors to Odisha come from West Bengal. In 2023, nearly 14% of domestic tourists in Odisha were from Bengal. The fear is that Digha could draw visitors away from Puri, affecting the local economy reliant on tourism. However, experts believe that Puri’s established reputation and infrastructure may still attract tourists despite the new competition.

Future of Rituals and Tourism

The ongoing debate marks the need for clarity regarding rituals and their significance. The Digha temple’s ability to attract devotees remains uncertain. The Puri servitors stress the importance of preserving the sanctity of the original temple’s practices. Meanwhile, the Odisha government faces pressure to enhance the experience for devotees at the Puri Temple to maintain its status as a premier pilgrimage site.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically examine the significance of the Jagannath Temple in Puri in the context of Indian cultural heritage.
2. Discuss the implications of temple replication on traditional practices and local economies in India.
3. Explain the concept of ‘Dham’ in Hinduism. How does it influence pilgrimage and tourism?
4. What are the socio-economic impacts of tourism on local communities in India? Discuss with suitable examples.

Answer Hints:

1. Critically examine the significance of the Jagannath Temple in Puri in the context of Indian cultural heritage.

1. Jagannath Temple is one of the four sacred dhams in Hinduism, symbolizing spiritual importance.
2. It hosts the annual Rath Yatra, attracting millions, showcasing India’s rich cultural traditions.
3. The temple represents the syncretism of various religious practices and beliefs, emphasizing inclusivity.
4. It is a center for art, music, and dance, influencing regional culture and identity.
5. The temple’s architecture exemplifies Kalingan style, contributing to India’s architectural heritage.

2. Discuss the implications of temple replication on traditional practices and local economies in India.

1. Replication may dilute the uniqueness and authenticity of traditional rituals associated with original temples.
2. It can create competition for devotees and tourists, potentially impacting local economies reliant on pilgrimage.
3. New temples may provide economic opportunities but risk overshadowing established sites like Puri.
4. Concerns arise over the commercialization of spirituality and the commodification of religious practices.
5. Local communities may face cultural erosion as new practices emerge in replicated temples.

3. Explain the concept of ‘Dham’ in Hinduism. How does it influence pilgrimage and tourism?

1. ‘Dham’ refers to sacred sites in Hinduism, with only four recognized – Badrinath, Dwarka, Puri, and Rameswaram.
2. These sites are believed to provide spiritual merit and attract pilgrims seeking salvation and blessings.
3. The concept encourages a strong sense of identity and belonging among devotees, enhancing pilgrimage experiences.
4. Tourism thrives around these dhams, contributing to local economies and cultural preservation.
5. The designation of ‘Dham’ elevates a temple’s status, impacting its popularity and visitor footfall.

4. What are the socio-economic impacts of tourism on local communities in India? Discuss with suitable examples.

1. Tourism generates employment opportunities, boosting local economies through jobs in hospitality and services.
2. It can lead to infrastructure development, improving transportation and public facilities for residents.
3. However, it may cause cultural commodification, where local traditions are altered for tourist appeal.
4. Examples include Varanasi, where tourism supports local artisans but also raises concerns over cultural preservation.
5. Tourism can lead to environmental degradation if not managed sustainably, affecting local livelihoods.