Jagannath Dham Prasad Row Ignites Cultural and Political Storm in West Bengal

India: West Bengal’s newly inaugurated Digha Jagannath Dham has become the center of a heated controversy, drawing sharp criticism from Odisha and political rivals like the BJP. The temple, modeled closely on Odisha’s revered Puri Jagannath shrine, has sparked intense debate over the rightful use of the “Jagannath Dham” title, traditionally reserved for the four sacred Char Dhams. Odisha’s religious authorities and servitor communities have expressed strong objections, accusing West Bengal of cultural appropriation and disrespecting centuries-old traditions. Meanwhile, political parties allege that the temple’s establishment and related prasad distribution are politically motivated moves aimed at wooing Hindu voters ahead of upcoming elections. The controversy raises broader questions about religious autonomy, heritage preservation, and the role of state-funded religious initiatives in a secular democracy.

Cultural Heritage Clash

West Bengal’s Digha temple, modeled after Odisha’s iconic Puri Jagannath shrine, is being labeled as “Jagannath Dham,” traditionally one of the four Char Dhams. Odisha servitors and scholars argue this misappropriates centuries‑old heritage.

Religious Titles Reserved

Suar‑Mahasuar and Puspalaka servitor bodies warn participants against involvement in Digha rituals, asserting that Dhams exist only at Badrinath, Dwarka, Rameswaram, and Puri, not Digha.

Political Vote‑Bank Play

Critics accuse Mamata Banerjee of using the Digha Jagannath Dham project to appeal to Hindu voters ahead of the 2026 elections. They claim the initiative is a calculated political move to gain electoral support by leveraging religious sentiments. The BJP has condemned the project as an example of soft Hindutva, alleging that it politicizes religion for electoral gains. Additionally, they accuse the West Bengal government of misusing public funds for this religious venture, raising questions about the separation of religion and state.

Odisha Reacts Strongly

Odisha’s Law Minister, along with members of the Puri royal family, has threatened to take legal action against West Bengal over the use of the “Dham” label for the newly built Digha temple. They argue that this title is traditionally reserved for the four sacred Char Dhams and should not be misused. They demand the immediate removal of the “Dham” designation and call for a uniform Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to be followed across all Jagannath temples, citing references from sacred scriptures to support their stance.

Sweets Prasad Row

The opposition has raised concerns over the alleged distribution of shop-bought sweets as temple prasad during a door-to-door campaign linked to the Digha Jagannath Dham. They argue that this practice undermines the sanctity and spiritual significance of traditional prasad offerings. The BJP has strongly criticized the government, accusing it of politicizing religious symbols for electoral gains. They claim that using commercial sweets in place of genuine prasad demeans religious rituals and reflects an attempt to exploit faith for political purposes.

Servitor Suspension Scandal

Puri servitor Ramakrushna Das Mahapatra was suspended following his involvement in the consecration ceremony of the Digha Jagannath Dham, where sacred wood from Puri was reportedly used without proper authorization. This move sparked controversy, as the use of such materials is strictly regulated by traditional norms. The BJP has cited Mahapatra’s suspension as clear evidence of rule-breaking and disrespect towards established religious protocols, further fueling the dispute between West Bengal authorities and Odisha’s religious custodians.

Secularism Questioned

Critics have questioned the constitutionality of state-funded religious initiatives like the Digha Jagannath Dham, arguing that they violate Article 27, which protects citizens from compulsory religious funding. They warn that such government involvement in religious affairs blurs the line between church and state, undermining India’s secular framework. Many fear that West Bengal could be heading toward Ayodhya-style majoritarian temple politics, where religious projects are used to consolidate political power, potentially alienating minority communities and destabilizing social harmony.