image credits: Debabrata Mohapatra
The Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri is at the heart of a significant initiative by the Odisha government. In a landmark decision, the state is seeking trademark protection for terms intrinsically linked to the 12th-century shrine, such as “Jagannath Dham,” “Shree Mandira,” and “Mahaprasad.” This move, driven by the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), aims to safeguard the temple’s unique heritage from misuse and preserve its sanctity for millions of devotees.
The Puri Jagannath Temple is a revered pilgrimage site built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva in the 12th century. Housing Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra, the temple’s idols, crafted from sacred neem wood, are central to its spiritual significance. The temple’s towering 65-meter spire, adorned with the iconic Neela Chakra, symbolizes Odisha’s devotion and pride. Rituals like the Rath Yatra and Nabakalebara draw millions, while the Mahaprasad, prepared in one of India’s largest temple kitchens, is considered a divine offering.
Why is the Odisha government seeking trademark protection for the Puri Jagannath Temple?
The decision to seek trademark protection stems from the need to preserve the temple’s unique identity. Terms like “Jagannath Dham” and “Shree Mandira” carry profound spiritual weight, rooted in scriptures and recognized by Adi Shankaracharya. Their unauthorized use risks diluting their sanctity, as seen in recent controversies. Protecting these terms ensures that Puri remains the sole “Jagannath Dham,” safeguarding Odisha’s cultural heritage for future generations. This initiative reflects the state’s dedication to upholding the temple’s global reverence.
What is the Jagannath Temple trademark issue all about?
In April 2025, a new Jagannath temple in Digha, West Bengal, named “Jagannath Dham,” ignited widespread concern in Odisha. Devotees and servitors, including senior priest Ramachandra Dasmohapatra, argued that the term “Dham” is exclusive to Puri, one of Hinduism’s four sacred Dhams. The controversy deepened with allegations that surplus neem wood from Puri’s Nabakalebara ritual was used for Digha’s idols, prompting a 30-day suspension of a Puri priest, Ramkrishna Das Mohapatra. Odisha’s Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi formally requested West Bengal’s Mamata Banerjee to remove the “Dham” label, emphasizing Puri’s unparalleled spiritual status.
Odisha’s Response to The Digha Controversy
The Digha controversy underscored the urgency of legal protection for temple terminology. The SJTA, led by chief administrator Dr. Arabinda Padhee, is now moving to trademark key phrases to prevent similar incidents. This action reflects Odisha’s resolve to protect its sacred traditions and ensure that terms like “Jagannath Dham” remain synonymous with Puri.
How does this trademark protect Odisha’s cultural identity?
The SJTA is preparing to secure trademarks for terms including “Jagannath Dham,” “Shree Mandira,” “Purushottam Kshetra,” “Neelachal Dham,” “Bada Danda,” “Mahaprasad,” and “Neela Chakra.” These terms are deeply embedded in Odisha’s spiritual fabric. “Mahaprasad,” the sacred food offered to Lord Jagannath, is revered as “Anna Brahma,” while “Neela Chakra” represents the temple’s divine symbol. The SJTA is finalizing the list and plans to approach the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry for registration, ensuring these terms remain exclusive to Puri.
What are the legal benefits of getting a temple trademark in India?
The trademarking process involves filing applications with the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. This legal framework will empower Odisha to challenge unauthorized use of temple terminology, addressing gaps exposed by the Digha incident. Cultural experts, including Puri’s titular king Dibyasingha Deb, have endorsed this move, stressing the need to preserve the Jagannath tradition’s exclusivity.
How does trademark protection support Jagannath temple tourism?
For Odias, the trademark initiative is a matter of pride and responsibility. Protecting terms like “Mahaprasad” and “Jagannath Dham” ensures that Puri’s spiritual legacy remains undiluted. This effort also strengthens Odisha’s global cultural identity, positioning the temple as a UNESCO heritage contender. As Dr. Arun Kumar Nayak, a Jagannath culture researcher, noted, these measures safeguard both the tangible and intangible heritage of Lord Jagannath’s abode, fostering unity among devotees.
