image credits: prasad kumar
Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb, the titular king of Odisha’s Puri, conducted an inspection of the ongoing Parikrama Prakalpa project around Shree Jagannath Temple. on March 15, 2025. His visit led to a deep commitment of improving the experience of the countless devotees who flock to the temple each year. Among the significant proposals shared was the establishment of an ‘Annakshetra’ outside the temple’s north gate which is a thoughtful step to ensure the sanctity and convenience of Mahaprasad distribution.
The Vision for Annakshetra at North Gate of Shree Jagannatha Temple Puri
The Shree Jagannath Temple has seen a steady rise in visitors, bringing both pride and challenges to Puri. One pressing issue has been the growing congestion at Anand Bazaar, the traditional area within the temple premises where devotees purchase and partake in Mahaprasad (the blessed food offering of Lord Jagannath). Recognising this, Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb proposed the creation of an Annakshetra outside the Uttara Dwara (north gate). “The existing Anand Bazaar has been struggling to accommodate the increasing number of devotees, causing difficulty in serving Mahaprasad. By designating a specific area outside the north gate for the Annakshetra, Mahaprasad can be served in a more organised manner,” he explained during his inspection.
This proposal proves to be a logistical solution as well as a gesture of respect for the devotees who travel far to seek blessings. By ensuring easier access to Mahaprasad, the Annakshetra will enhance the spiritual experience and eliminate the burden of navigating crowded spaces. Accompanied by senior officials, including the Chief Administrator of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), the District Collector, and the Superintendent of Police, the Gajapati Maharaja’s vision reflects a collaborative spirit aimed at uplifting Puri’s sacred landscape.
The Way Towards Modernisation of the Shrine
The inspection of the Parikrama Prakalpa( project to beautify temple’s periphery ) was complemented by announcements of additional upgrades. Among these are the relocation of the Srimandir office and the renovation of the Shree Jagannath Cultural Library and Raghunandan Library. Meanwhile, a recent meeting between SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Director General Y S Rawat highlighted further modernisation plans. These include installing air conditioning in the Nata Mandap, enhancing lighting across the temple complex, and undertaking silver and gold plating of various sections.
A temple administration spokesperson noted, “These improvements aim to provide devotees with a more comfortable darshan.” The ongoing repair and preservation of the Ratna Bhandar (treasury) also featured in discussions, with Padhee emphasising timely completion and thanking the ASI for its technical expertise. Moreover, SJTA has also Initiated UNESCO Recognition for Puri Ratha Jatra.
The Gajapati Maharaja’s leadership, supported by temple authorities and government officials, embodies a collective resolve to honour Lord Jagannath’s divine presence while addressing practical needs. This unity of purpose in the collaboration between the SJTA, ASI, and local administration mirrors the spirit of Odisha’s communities. Along with these developments, 221 acres of land has been alloted for the Shree Jagannatha Airport in Puri.
