What's Next for Puri? Odisha's Ambitious Plan for a Jagannath Cultural Hub

Odisha's Vision for Jagannath Culture

Bhubaneswar: The Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Majhi, announced on Friday plans to establish a museum, library, and research center in Puri dedicated to the preservation of Jagannath culture and literature.

During a press briefing in Bhubaneswar, Majhi emphasized that this new facility will be crucial for studying, documenting, and promoting the rich traditions linked to Lord Jagannath.

The complex will feature a 300-seat auditorium designed for daily light and sound shows, along with a spacious open-air stage for cultural performances.

Majhi pointed out that many young tourists visiting Puri are largely unaware of the Jagannath culture, noting that little progress has been made in this area over the past seventy years.

He stated, "To promote and preserve Jagannath culture and literature, the government has decided to create this world-class center in Puri."

Majhi also remarked that previous efforts to develop Puri as a tourist hotspot were lacking.

He highlighted that tourists currently have limited attractions, primarily the Jagannath Temple and the beach, with no other entertainment or tourism facilities available.

To address these gaps, the government plans to construct the Shri Jagannath Museum, Library, and Research Centre within a single complex.

The museum will feature exhibits on the temple's history, the crafting of wooden deities, Kalinga's triumph in Kanchi, various festivals, and temple rituals.

These narratives will be illustrated through paintings, miniature sculptures, plaques, and other artifacts.

The library will house literature related to Jagannath culture as well as broader Odia traditions, including e-library services.

Majhi mentioned that numerous stories associated with the Jagannath Temple will be adapted into episodes for presentation in Odia, Hindi, English, and Bengali through the light and sound shows.