In the serene beach town of Digha in West Bengal’s Purba Medinipur district, a construction marvel is underway—the Jagannath Temple. With an estimated cost of around ₹143 crore, this architectural gem is anticipated to be completed by March 2024, opening its gates to devotees in April next year.
Key Details about Jagannath Temple in Digha:
- Inception and Foundation Stone: The idea for the Jagannath Temple in Digha took shape in 2019 when West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee laid the foundation stone. Situated 8 km from the Chandaneswar temple in Balasore district, this temple is poised to become a significant spiritual and cultural landmark.
- Construction Agency: The West Bengal Housing Infrastructure Development Corporation (WBHIDCO) is spearheading the construction, while the design and architecture are entrusted to Kolkata-based Salient Design Studio.
- Commencement of Construction: The construction commenced in May 2022, and the temple is progressing at an impressive pace. The team aims to complete the project in record time.
- Diverse Workforce: Over 1,000 individuals from West Bengal and other states, including Odisha, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan, are actively contributing to the construction efforts.
- Architectural Splendor: Spanning approximately 20 acres, the temple, located seaside and adjacent to the New Digha railway station, is designed as a replica of the renowned Jagannath Temple in Odisha’s Puri.
- Imported Marble Flooring: Marble sourced from Vietnam is being utilized for the temple’s flooring. Trucks are transporting the slabs from Kolkata Port to the construction site.
- Intricate Design Elements: The temple will feature two entrances—one for regular devotees and another for VIPs. Surrounding the temple will be expansive gardens, along with essential facilities such as a bhog hall, parking lot, and a storeroom for temple supplies.
- Statues and Dedication: Soaring to a height of 65 meters, the temple will be dedicated to the revered trio—Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra.
- Administrative Oversight: The Digha Shankarpur Development Authority (DSDA) is set to manage and oversee the temple when it opens its doors to the public.
As the Jagannath Temple in Digha takes shape, it promises to be a cultural and spiritual landmark, drawing devotees and tourists alike to experience its architectural grandeur and the serenity of its coastal surroundings.
