Digha's Jagannath Dham to be a global icon, says Mamata

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee returned to Kolkata on Wednesday after her three-day visit to Digha, where she reviewed the construction of the ambitious 'Chaitanya Jagannath Dham' project. Speaking at the Digha helipad ground before her departure, she declared that the temple complex would become a global icon, attracting pilgrims and tourists worldwide.

The Jagannath Dham project is modeled on the famous Puri Jagannath Temple and incorporates other architectural influences. The temple complex will be inaugurated on April 30, 2025, coinciding with the auspicious occasion of Akshay Tritiya. The CM also announced the formation of a 13-member board of trustees to oversee the project’s completion and management.

Significantly, Mamata Banerjee named Radharamn Das, Vice President of ISKCON Kolkata, one of the trustees. The decision is seen as a strategic move, especially after recent alleged attacks on ISKCON monks and institutions in Bangladesh. Mamata Banerjee has signaled solidarity and support for the Hindu community by including ISKCON on the board.

During her visit, Mamata also emphasized the cultural and spiritual significance of the project. She tasked the Press Club of East Medinipur with promoting the project on a global scale. Nityaprabhananda Maharaj of the Ramakrishna Mission, present on the occasion, requested the Chief Minister to consider establishing an educational institution in nearby Mandarmani, which Mamata Banerjee promised to explore.