Whenever we say Jagannath, we first think of Puri: Bengali devotees
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Puri: The Jagannath Temple in Puri has drawn massive a crowd of Bengali devotees for this year's Rath Yatra, effectively dismissing concerns in certain quarters about the impact of the newly constructed Jagannath shrine in Digha, West Bengal, on the festival in Puri.
Hotel industry data reveals that Bengali pilgrims currently occupy approximately 50% of Puri's hotel accommodation. "Bengalis make up half of our current occupancy, with 30% being Odia tourists and the remaining 20% comprising foreigners and visitors from other states," Raj Kishore Patra, vice-president of Puri Hotel Association, said.
West Bengal contributes significantly to Odisha's tourist influx. Bengali visitors increased from 5.34 lakh in 2021 to 13.59 lakh in 2023, consistently maintaining around 14% of total domestic arrivals.
There is no decline in the last two years, though official data is yet to be available, Patra said.
"Jagannath Temple in Puri is not just any temple, it holds distinct historical, religious and mythological significance," emphasized Subhojit Rakshit (37), a businessman from Kolkata, adding, "Whenever people mention Jagannath, they first remember Puri."
Ganesh Chandra (70), a retired govt servant from Paschim Medinipur who is a regular visitor to Puri, reinforced this sentiment.
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"No matter how many temples are built elsewhere, we will continue to visit Jagannath Temple in Puri," Chandra said.
Sabita Bakshi (60), a housewife from Bengal highlighted the uniqueness of Puri's Rath Yatra. "Rath Yatras take place across the world, but none can match the spiritual experience of Puri," she said.
"The original always remains original," said Ankita Pal (30), a devotee from Kolkata. "Many temples may replicate Puri's Jagannath Temple, but Puri remains the real one," she added.
While the Digha temple has provided an alternative to a section of devotees, industry observers note that Bengali pilgrims maintain their traditional connection with Puri, ensuring the ancient shrine's continued prominence in religious tourism. The shrine in Digha can be an additional option, not a substitute, the devotees said.
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