Puri, jan, 12; Shree Mandira Parikrama at Shree Jagannatha Temple in Puri will open for devotees on January 17, marking the successful completion of the first phase of the Temple Transformation Project. The inauguration will consecrate a 75-meter corridor around the Meghanada Pacheri, the temple's outer compound wall. This will address challenges faced by devotees during parikrama due to space constraints.
The project will be dedicated to the nation by Naveen Patnaik, Chief Minister, Odisha. The ceremonies will start on January 12 concluding with Purnahuti Aarti and Puspanjali on January 17. Gajapati Maharaj Shri Dibyasingha Deb will be the Karta for the ceremony. During the inauguration, Vedanga pandits will chant mantras at four dwaras (temple gates): Singhadwar, Hastidwar, Vyaghradwar and Aswadwar. Each gate will have 15 pandits. Priests, saints and religious leaders from all parts of the country will come to join the inauguration. Shankaracharya Nischalananda Saraswati will be a special attendee at the place of yajna.
Commenting on this development Collector & District Magistrate, Puri, Mr. Samarth Verma, IAS, said, "The inauguration of the Shree Mandira Parikrama at the Lord Jagannatha Mandira is a celebration of the timeless heritage and spiritual magnificence of the Shree Mandira. The inauguration ceremony will allow the world to witness this grand amalgamation of tradition and modernity and foster a deeper spiritual connection for devotees across the globe. The Parikrama is not just an upgrade of the infrastructure around the temple but signifies a renaissance of our faith and devotion to Lord Jagannatha. Through the Temple Transformation project, we will enhance the experience for the devotees of the Lord, while preserving the sanctity and cultural ethos of this sacred site. Great care has been taken to see that the renovation or revival work preserves the rich temple heritage and architecture."
The project seeks to greatly improve the experience for devotees at the 12th-century shrine in Puri, a central symbol of Odia pride. The Temple Transformation Project, with a budget of Rs 800 crore, includes the development of the temple precinct, a mega reception center, cultural center, library, Jagannath Ballav pilgrim center, and multi-level car parking. All the new construction being done is following Kalingan Architectural style using Khondalite stone, same as the Shree Jagannatha Temple
The Pradakshina paths around the Meghanada Pacheri will provide a clear view of the temple during circumambulation, enhancing the holy experience. Under this project an inner parikrama, a garden, and an outer parikrama has been constructed, providing ample space for peaceful prayer. Plants for the garden area have been carefully chosen as flowers from them will be used in temple for worshipping purposes.