Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Government has decided to undertake comprehensive measures for the development, protection and preservation of Govardhan Mutt in Puri, established by Adi Shankaracharya, while further promoting the spiritual heritage and culture associated with Mahaprabhu Jagannath.
A high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi at Lok Seva Bhavan on Thursday reviewed a range of issues concerning the historic Peeth, including protection of its properties, resolution of land-related matters, security of the Jagadguru Shankaracharya and development of the surrounding areas.
Focus on Resolving Land Issues
During the meeting, Chief Minister Majhi directed officials to undertake a fresh and detailed review of the old land settlement records associated with Govardhan Peeth.
The exercise is aimed at finding a permanent solution to the long-pending land-related issues of the Peeth and ensuring that its properties are properly protected. The Chief Minister also directed officials to strengthen security arrangements for Jagadguru Shankaracharya and enhance safety measures across the Peeth premises.
Samadhi Sites of Former Acharyas to Be Preserved
The State Government will take special measures for the protection and preservation of the sacred samadhi sites of former Acharyas of Govardhan Peeth. The meeting also discussed the development of the areas surrounding the Peeth and the provision of necessary facilities for the proper management of Shri Govardhan Gaushala located within the Peeth premises.
Officials were asked to ensure that the historical, cultural and spiritual significance of the Peeth is preserved while improving facilities for devotees and visitors.
Mahodadhi Aarti to Be Made More Grand
Special emphasis was placed on the daily Sandhya Mahodadhi Aarti performed on the beach opposite Swargadwar in Puri.
Chief Minister Majhi directed officials to undertake beautification of the Aarti venue and organise the evening ritual on a larger and more attractive scale. He also instructed the administration to develop the entire Puri beachfront as a spiritual shoreline, integrating its religious and cultural significance with planned development.
The proposed initiative is expected to further enhance Puri’s identity as a major spiritual and cultural destination and provide devotees and visitors with an improved experience.
Strengthening Puri’s Spiritual Heritage
The Chief Minister stressed the importance of preserving Govardhan Peeth’s rich spiritual and historical legacy and promoting the traditions associated with Mahaprabhu Jagannath.
The government said the proposed measures seek to strike a balance between heritage conservation and infrastructure development, ensuring that the religious significance of Govardhan Peeth is protected for future generations.
The meeting was attended by Revenue Minister Suresh Pujari, Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan, saints and representatives of Govardhan Peeth, along with senior government officials.
Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Development Commissioner D.K. Singh, Additional Chief Secretary Hemant Sharma, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration Chief Administrator Dr Aravind Padhee, Law Secretary Dr Pabitra Mohan Samal, Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and Puri SP Prateek Singh were among those present.
Representatives of Govardhan Peeth, including Prafulla Chaitanya Maharaj and Aditya Vahini chief and Peeth representative Matrupasad Mishra, also participated in the discussions.
The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the heritage of Govardhan Peeth and strengthening Puri’s position as a prominent centre of spirituality, faith and Mahaprabhu Jagannath culture.
