Odisha leaders object to ‘Dham’ label used for new temple in Digha
DIGHA — The naming of West Bengal’s newly inaugurated Jagannath temple in Digha as “Jagannath Dham” has stirred political and religious tensions between West Bengal and neighboring Odisha. Critics argue that the use of the term “Dham” — traditionally associated with one of Hinduism’s four holiest pilgrimage sites — is misleading and culturally inappropriate.
The temple, inaugurated earlier this week, is being promoted as a major spiritual attraction for coastal Bengal. However, leaders in Odisha, including members of the ruling Biju Janata Dal (BJD), have raised strong objections, suggesting the name undermines the sanctity of the original Jagannath Dham in Puri.
BJD accuses Bengal of appropriating religious identity
Odisha’s Culture Minister Ashwini Patra stated, “Jagannath Dham is not just a name, it is a legacy deeply rooted in Odisha’s religious fabric. No other temple should use that title.” Political commentators say the issue could escalate into a broader cultural dispute between the two eastern states.
The Odisha government has initiated an internal inquiry into the temple’s naming and has hinted at raising the matter with the Centre if it is not resolved amicably.
West Bengal defends temple as regional spiritual center
Officials from the West Bengal Tourism Department have defended the naming, saying the term “Dham” is used locally to denote a place of devotion and not intended to mimic the sanctity of Puri’s shrine. “We respect the original Jagannath Temple and have no intention of diluting its religious standing,” a senior official clarified.
Sources in the ruling Trinamool Congress dismissed the objections as politically motivated. “Digha’s Jagannath temple is meant to serve local devotees and tourists. This is not a competition,” said TMC MLA Soumen Mahapatra.
Religious scholars and public opinion remain divided
Scholars and priests across both states have expressed mixed reactions. While some argue that devotional spaces should be welcomed regardless of labels, others insist that precise terminology matters in preserving heritage.
“I understand Odisha’s concern,” said Dr. Nandini Chatterjee, a professor of religious studies at Jadavpur University. “At the same time, every region has the right to celebrate its spiritual traditions.”
On social media, the debate has gone viral, with hashtags like #JagannathControversy and #DhamDebate trending in both states.
Tourism impact and political undertones
The temple is expected to draw thousands of pilgrims and tourists to Digha in the coming months. Analysts say the dispute, though rooted in religious sentiment, also reflects deeper political dynamics as both states gear up for future elections.
Tourism boards in Bengal continue to market the temple as part of Digha’s growing list of attractions. Meanwhile, religious leaders in Odisha have called for respectful dialogue and cultural sensitivity in resolving the matter.
