The Odisha government is set to roll out a new initiative offering free Mahaprasad to all devotees visiting the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The announcement was made by Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, who stated that the government will allocate Rs 15 crore annually to fund the programme. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enriching the spiritual experience of visitors to the historic temple.
Minister Harichandan clarified that the new scheme will not impose a heavy financial burden on the state government, as many devotees are voluntarily contributing to support this noble cause. The decision to launch the programme was driven by the sentiment that whenever devotees return home after darshan, their families and neighbors eagerly await the Mahaprasad—a sacred offering considered to carry divine blessings.
To address overcrowding and inconvenience faced by devotees during darshan, the government will introduce a streamlined entry-exit system from the month of Margashira (mid-November). This new arrangement will improve the flow of devotees and ensure that everyone can have a smooth darshan experience.
Entry will be allowed directly from Sata Pahacha. Exit will be facilitated through the Ghanti Dwara. The revised darshan process will be fully implemented after the Kartika month celebrations, providing a more orderly and comfortable experience for visitors.
Special care is also being taken for Habisyalis—elderly women who observe the Kartika Brata in Puri. The state government will ensure that these pilgrims are well accommodated and face no challenges during their visit. Additionally, arrangements are being made to guarantee their safe return home after darshan at the temple.
The Odisha government is set to roll out a new initiative offering free Mahaprasad to all devotees visiting the Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri. The announcement was made by Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, who stated that the government will allocate Rs 15 crore annually to fund the programme. This initiative reflects the government’s commitment to enriching the spiritual experience of visitors to the historic temple.
Minister Harichandan clarified that the new scheme will not impose a heavy financial burden on the state government, as many devotees are voluntarily contributing to support this noble cause. The decision to launch the programme was driven by the sentiment that whenever devotees return home after darshan, their families and neighbors eagerly await the Mahaprasad—a sacred offering considered to carry divine blessings.
To address overcrowding and inconvenience faced by devotees during darshan, the government will introduce a streamlined entry-exit system from the month of Margashira (mid-November). This new arrangement will improve the flow of devotees and ensure that everyone can have a smooth darshan experience.
Entry will be allowed directly from Sata Pahacha. Exit will be facilitated through the Ghanti Dwara. The revised darshan process will be fully implemented after the Kartika month celebrations, providing a more orderly and comfortable experience for visitors.
Special care is also being taken for Habisyalis—elderly women who observe the Kartika Brata in Puri. The state government will ensure that these pilgrims are well accommodated and face no challenges during their visit. Additionally, arrangements are being made to guarantee their safe return home after darshan at the temple.
