Located approximately 350 kilometers from the iconic Jagannath Temple in Puri, the newly constructed Jagannath Dham in Digha has garnered attention for its inclusive entry policy, offering a striking contrast to the centuries-old shrine in Odisha. Developed over a sprawling 20-acre site with an investment nearing ₹250 crore, the temple has been built under the aegis of ISKCON (International Society for Krishna Consciousness).
“All Are Welcome”: ISKCON Stresses Inclusivity
“Anyone who walks in, anyone who has love for Lord Jagannath, can come—irrespective of their caste or religion,” The Indian Express quoted Radharaman Das, Vice President of ISKCON, as saying.
This open-door policy stands in contrast to the entry regulations at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, which bars non-Hindus and foreigners from entering the sanctum. Das explained that the Digha temple’s approach aligns with the teachings of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, who envisioned spiritual inclusivity.
“Digha’s Jagannath Dham will welcome devotees from all walks of life, reflecting the global vision of Chaitanya Mahaprabhu,” he said.
Gaudiya Vaishnavism vs. Shankaracharya Tradition
Das further elaborated that the inclusive stance is rooted in Gaudiya Vaishnavism, the tradition followed by ISKCON. “According to Gaudiya Vaishnavism, there are no restrictions—anyone can enter the temple. But the Shankaracharya school of thought, which influences temple practices in Puri, does not permit entry for non-Hindus and foreigners,” he said.
When asked whether Muslims could enter the Digha shrine, Das responded affirmatively: “Yes, of course. If someone is coming here, we believe they have some love and respect for the deity. That is the only reason they would enter.”
Historical Context Behind Puri’s Restrictions
Acknowledging the historical sensitivities surrounding the Jagannath Temple in Puri, Das said, “We deeply respect the traditions of Puri. Over centuries, the temple has faced repeated invasions and destruction, which perhaps explains the strict entry policies. But ISKCON temples are founded on trust—we believe that anyone coming in front of the deity is driven by devotion.”
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ISKCON’s Global Perspective
Highlighting ISKCON’s global footprint, Das noted that its temples around the world are open to all, regardless of nationality or background. “In the West, we have devotees who are deeply spiritual. Many don’t consume onion, garlic, tea, or coffee. They live by the principles of Sanatan Dharma. Yet, just because they are foreigners—American, Russian, Chinese, or Japanese—they are not allowed into the Jagannath Temple in Puri,” he said.
He also invoked revered historical figures from the Gaudiya tradition, such as Haridas Thakur—born into a Muslim family—and Roop and Sanatan Goswami, Brahmins who served under a Muslim ruler. “Despite being excluded by orthodox society, they never forced their way into the Puri temple. They respected the sentiments and customs,” Das added.
Temple Inauguration Draws Mixed Reactions
As the Digha temple prepares to open its doors to the public, its inauguration has sparked debate among religious circles in Puri. Two major associations of servitors from the 12th-century shrine have advised their members not to participate in the Digha temple’s consecration rituals.
Despite this, Rajesh Dwaitapati, a servitor from the Jagannath Temple in Puri, is overseeing the Pran Pratishtha (deity consecration) in Digha. Dismissing the concerns of dissent, Das clarified, “A section may have objected, but Rajesh Dwaitapati has been in Digha for a week, actively involved in the rituals.”
“A Feeling of Inclusivity”
Summing up the vision behind the new temple, Das said, “It gives a feeling of inclusivity. In the Gaudiya Madhva Sampradaya, we are guided by Chaitanya Mahaprabhu’s teaching that the chants of Hare Krishna and Hare Rama must reach every corner of the world.”
