If you’ve ever visited Puri, you’ve likely brought back the iconic “Khaja” as a token of blessings from the Jagannath temple. This dry sweet is considered a part of the Mahaprasad in Puri. But Bengal has decided to bring its own touch to its new temple in Digha.
On April 30, the much-awaited Jagannath Temple in Digha, East Midnapore, is set to be inaugurated. However, instead of Puri’s famous Khaja, devotees will receive Kalighat’s traditional “Pera” and Bengal’s dry sweet “Gaja” as offerings, a decision directly announced by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee during a review meeting at Nabanna.
🗣️ Why Not Khaja? Mamata Banerjee Explains
During the meeting, CM Mamata Banerjee questioned the temple priest Rajesh Dwaitapati about the offering traditions in Puri. The priest explained that in Puri, food is first offered to Goddess Dakshina Kali before becoming Mahaprasad.
To honor this tradition in Bengal’s own way, the CM said,
“According to our custom, we will offer Kalighat’s Pera in Digha’s Jagannath temple. Like Khaja, Pera and Gaja are dry sweets, perfect for devotees to carry back home.”
🎉 Puri’s Rituals, Bengal’s Spirit
The temple in Digha, modeled on the architectural style of Puri, will integrate Bengal’s heritage in every detail—from the sweets to the rituals. The Chief Minister emphasized that this local touch will make the temple a symbol of Bengal’s spiritual and cultural pride.
🛍️ Flag Shops to Be Set Up Like Puri
Mamata Banerjee also announced that flag stalls (dhwaja shops), commonly seen near the Puri temple, will be set up in Digha as well. These flags are offered by devotees to Lord Jagannath as a sign of devotion. Artisans from Puri will be brought in to help set up these stalls in Digha, ensuring authenticity.
🌐 Online Puja in the Pipeline
The Chief Minister further added:
“Let the basic systems get in place first. Then we’ll identify gaps and implement the rest. Online puja offerings will also be launched soon.”
The Jagannath temple in Digha is set to be more than just a pilgrimage site—it’s envisioned to be a spiritual tourism destination blending devotion, culture, and innovation.