Bhubaneswar: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has put the proposed reopening of the historic Gundicha (Mousimaa) Temple for devotees, scheduled for December 1 on temporary hold. The decision comes after senior technical authorities highlighted the need for additional time to complete essential repair, conservation, and safety-related works inside the centuries-old shrine.
A detailed inspection of the Gundicha Temple was conducted recently as per the recommendations of the Shree Jagannath Temple Managing Committee. Following the assessment, SJTA Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee had earlier announced that the temple would be reopened to the general public from December 1, marking a significant step after nearly six years of restricted access due to structural concerns and ongoing renovation.
However, the latest urgent reports submitted by the Additional Chief Engineer and the Senior Supervisor have flagged multiple pending tasks, prompting the administration to reassess the earlier decision.
According to the Additional Chief Engineer’s report, the temple still requires considerable structural and conservation work. Critical pending activities include the installation of steel beams and the laying of Khondalite stone flooring, both of which are essential for ensuring the stability and safety of the structure. The official noted that additional time is needed to complete these tasks without compromising quality or safety standards.
Simultaneously, the Senior Supervisor’s report pointed out the need for urgent cleaning, landscaping, and development work in the temple gardens and surrounding areas. Ensuring a safe environment for devotees, especially given the expected surge in footfall once the temple reopens, remains a top priority for the administration.
In view of these observations, SJTA has decided to defer the reopening until all essential repairs are completed. A fresh date for public access will be announced once the ongoing work reaches satisfactory completion levels, officials said.
The Gundicha Temple, an integral part of the annual Rath Yatra rituals as the destination of the chariots of BhagwanBalabhadra, Devi Subhadra, and BhagwanJagannath, has remained closed to devotees for nearly six years due to structural interventions and administrative decisions.
SJTA Proposes Rs 17.12-Crore Heritage Illumination for Jagannath Temple
In another significant development, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration has proposed a state-of-the-art Heritage Illumination project for the iconic 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Puri. Once completed, the upgraded lighting system will make the shrine visible from up to 10 kilometres away, dramatically enhancing its night-time grandeur.
Chief Administrator Arabinda Padhee informed that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has completed the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed illumination. The initial phase is estimated to cost ₹17.12 crore, which includes management and maintenance for five years post-completion. The SJTA will request the Odisha Government to fund the project under the Abadha scheme.
The project aims to create an aesthetically appealing and technically advanced lighting arrangement while preserving the temple’s historical and architectural integrity. During a briefing, Padhee said the proposal has been “unanimously accepted by all sub-committees,” with instructions to ensure proper management and commissioning as per the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
Other than the Garbha Gruha, Jagamohana, Natamandap, and Bhogamandap, the illumination will cover the shrines of Parswa Devatas, Ananda Bazaar, the Meghanada Pacheri (the Grand Compound Wall), Kuruma Bedha, and other structures within the temple premises.
SJTA officials described the initiative as a modern, technology-driven lighting solution aimed at enhancing the visual appeal of one of India’s most revered heritage sites.
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