Jamshedpur witnessed a historic moment on Thursday as President Droupadi Murmu laid the foundation stone for the Sri Jagannath Spiritual and Cultural Center in Kadma’s Marine Drive area. In her address, the President emphasized the universal grace of Lord Jagannath, stating that his blessings shower equally on all humanity without any discrimination.
Beginning her speech with a resounding ‘Jai Jagannath,’ President Murmu highlighted the inclusive nature of the deity’s court, where caste, class, or social hierarchies hold no sway. She invoked the popular saying ‘Jagannath ke bhaat, jagat pasare haath,’ symbolizing shared values and communal harmony as devotees partake in the sacred mahaprasad together.
Describing the timing of the groundbreaking as divine coincidence, she drew parallels to the Rath Yatra, where Lord Jagannath chooses his chariot. The President expressed confidence that this center would spark social awakening and bring the blessings of the Puri deity permanently to Jamshedpur’s soil.
As former Governor of Jharkhand, President Murmu portrayed Jagannath culture as a beautiful fusion of tribal and non-tribal traditions. She recounted the legend of tribal king Viswavasu and Brahmin Vidypati, underscoring the legacy of social unity.
Referring to the ‘Darubrahma’ wooden form of the deity, she linked it to nature conservation and eco-friendly living, resonating deeply with tribal ethos. The event saw the presence of Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.
According to trust chairman S.K. Behera, the project, costing around 100 crore rupees, will span 2.5 acres, with the main temple on 1.5 acres and the cultural center on 1 acre. Inspired by Puri’s Jagannath Temple architecture, the temple aims for completion in four years, and the center in two. Plans include studying texts like Gita and Bhagavat to instill ethics, discipline, and confidence in youth.