Berhampur: In a significant development concerning the administration of the revered Shree Jagannath Temple, the Minister for Law and Works, Prithiviraj Harichandan, announced today that the notification for the reconstitution of the Temple’s Management Committee will be issued within the next week.
The tenure of the previous Management Committee concluded in September 2024, and the formation of a new Committee has been eagerly awaited to oversee the temple’s affairs, governance, and implementation of developmental projects.
Speaking to the media during a visit to the Tara Tarini Temple in Berhampur, Minister Shri Harichandan emphasized the state government’s commitment to enhancing the management and facilities at the Shree Jagannath Temple, which draws lakhs of devotees daily.
He stated that the formation of the new Managing Committee is a crucial step towards improving transparency, efficiency, and the overall experience for pilgrims visiting the shrine.
Following the formation of the committee, one of the initial key decisions expected to be approved is the proposal to relocate the temple’s donation boxes (‘hundis’). This relocation is necessary to facilitate the implementation of the ‘Dhadi Darshan’ system.
In a move aimed at streamlining the flow of devotees and ensuring better crowd management, the Law Minister also announced that the ‘Dhadi Darshan’ or queue-based system for darshan at the Srimandir is likely to be introduced by the end of this month.
The ‘Dhadi Darshan’ system is designed to provide a more orderly and disciplined approach to devotees seeking blessings of Lord Jagannath and his siblings. Barricades and designated pathways for men, women, and senior citizens are expected to be put in place.
This announcement comes after previous reports indicated a possible commencement of the ‘Dhadi Darshan’ system earlier in the year, which faced some delays due to logistical arrangements, including the shifting of the ‘hundis’.
The implementation of ‘Dhadi Darshan’ is anticipated to significantly improve the darshan experience, especially during peak seasons and festivals when the temple witnesses a massive influx of devotees.
The Minister also reiterated the government’s focus on ensuring the safety and convenience of all pilgrims visiting the Srimandir and indicated that the new Management Committee will play a vital role in these on-going efforts.
This development brings much-awaited progress in the administrative affairs of the Shree Jagannath Temple and offers hope for a more organized and comfortable pilgrimage experience for devotees in the near future.