Jagannath temple not Dham: Sand artist Pattnaik

PADMA SHRI AWARDEE and Sand Artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has objected to naming a newly built Jagannath temple in Digha as 'Jagannath Dham,' saying it undermines the sanctity of Puri's Jagannath Dham and called on West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to clarify the state's stand.

- ANI Odisha, May 6

Speaking to ANI, Pattnaik said, "...We welcome that the Jagannath temple has been built by the West Bengal government, but how can you name the Jagannath temple as Jagannath Dham, no one will accept this..." The artist clarified that there was no opposition to the construction of the temple itself but questioned the use of the term 'Dham,' which holds significant religious importance.