In a profound address during the foundation laying ceremony of the proposed Sri Jagannath Temple in Jamshedpur, President Droupadi Murmu declared that Lord Jagannath’s grace knows no bounds, embracing all of humanity equally. The event unfolded at Kadma Marine Drive, marking a significant cultural milestone for the steel city.
President Murmu opened with ‘Jai Jagannath’ and elaborated on the deity’s realm as a sanctuary free from discrimination based on caste or status. She beautifully illustrated this with the tradition encapsulated in ‘Jagannath ke bhaat, jagat pasare haath,’ where everyone shares the prasad, fostering unity and equality.
She deemed the ceremony’s timing auspicious, akin to the divine choice during Rath Yatra. This center, she assured, would serve as a beacon for social enlightenment, ensuring Nilaachala’s lord resides eternally in Jamshedpur.
Highlighting the syncretic essence of Jagannath worship, the President narrated the tale of Sabar king Viswavasu and scholar Vidypati, exemplifying tribal-Brahmin harmony. The wooden idol form, she noted, promotes environmental stewardship, aligning with indigenous wisdom.
Dignitaries including Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, CM Hemant Soren, and Minister Dharmendra Pradhan graced the occasion. Project details from trustee S.K. Behera reveal a 100-crore initiative over 2.5 acres. The Puri-inspired temple will take four years, cultural facilities two, focusing on scriptural education for youth moral development.