Odisha CM Urges Removal of “Dham” from Digha Jagannath Temple Name

Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has formally requested West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari to drop the word “Dham” from the name of the Digha Jagannath Dham temple complex in Purba Medinipur.

In his letter, Majhi emphasised that “Jagannath Dham” is historically and spiritually synonymous with Puri, one of the four sacred Dhams of India.

He argued that using the term elsewhere undermines the sanctity of Shree Jagannath Dham, Puri, and hurts the sentiments of millions of devotees.

The Chief Minister proposed renaming the complex as “Shri Jagannath Temple, Digha”, which he said would preserve cultural authenticity while avoiding confusion.

Majhi expressed confidence that Adhikari would act swiftly to resolve the matter, fostering mutual respect between Odisha and West Bengal.

The issue has sparked debate among devotees, scholars, and socio‑cultural organisations, many of whom believe that the exclusive identity of Puri as Jagannath Dham must be safeguarded.