By The Sampadak Express
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday offered a unique donation to the soon-to-be-inaugurated Jagannath Temple in Digha—a gold broom worth ₹5 lakh. The Chief Minister also took part in a yagna (sacred ritual) held on the eve of the temple’s grand opening, which is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30.
Addressing the gathering, Banerjee emphasized unity and inclusiveness, saying, “People from all religions, castes, and communities have come together here. Religion isn’t about words—it touches your heart.”
The ceremony witnessed the presence of priests from the famed Jagannath Temple in Puri and ISKCON in West Bengal, alongside representatives from Adya Peeth, Dakshineswar, and Belur Math.
The Chief Minister dedicated the rituals to the well-being of the people of Bengal. “They asked for my gotro (lineage) during the ritual, but I said this puja is for Ma, Mati, Manush (Mother, Land, People). If the people of my State are happy, I am happy,” she said.
Banerjee praised the temple’s architecture, noting its resemblance to the iconic 12th-century Puri Jagannath Temple. “This temple is a new international tourist destination. It’s a matter of pride for Bengal and the entire country,” she said. A yellow flag was ceremonially hoisted atop the temple on Tuesday.
Constructed over three years at an estimated cost of ₹250 crore, the temple features pink sandstone architecture and includes a garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum), natmandir, jagmohan, and bhog mandap. A 34-foot tall, 18-faced pillar made of black stone stands at the entrance.
The temple gates will open to the public following Wednesday’s inaugural programme, which will be live-streamed across the State. The Trinamool Congress has organized public screenings in various districts to ensure widespread participation.
