Puri, June 10:Renowned international sand artist and Padma Shri awardee Sudarsan Pattnaik has expressed gratitude over the decision to remove the word “Dham” from the name of the Jagannath Temple project in Digha, describing it as a step that respects the faith and sentiments of millions of Lord Jagannath devotees.
Pattnaik conveyed his appreciation through a sand art creation dedicated to Lord Jagannath and shared the message on social media. In his post, he thanked West Bengal authorities for taking the decision and said it reflects respect for the sanctity of Sanatan Dharma and the beliefs of devotees across the country.
“Jai Jagannath. We express our heartfelt gratitude for the decision to remove the word ‘Dham’ from the name of the Jagannath Temple in Digha. This thoughtful step reflects respect for the sentiments and faith of millions of devotees of Mahaprabhu Jagannath and upholds the sanctity of Sanatan Dharma,” Pattnaik stated.
The controversy dates back to the inauguration of the Digha Jagannath Temple in April 2025. The shrine, modeled on the iconic Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri, had initially been named “Jagannath Dham,” triggering objections from devotees, servitors, and religious leaders in Odisha. They argued that the title “Jagannath Dham” is traditionally associated only with Puri, one of Hinduism’s four sacred Char Dhams.
The issue gained further attention after Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi formally raised concerns over the nomenclature and urged the West Bengal government to reconsider the use of the term.
Following the request, the Digha temple complex was renamed as theSri Sri Jagannath Mandir Cultural Centre, while retaining its status as a place of worship. The move has been welcomed by many devotees and cultural figures in Odisha, who view it as a gesture of respect towards the unique spiritual identity of Puri’s Jagannath Temple.
Pattnaik’s tribute through sand art has further highlighted the emotional and cultural significance of the issue, with many social media users praising the decision as one that promotes religious sensitivity and harmony.
