Devotees Will No More Embrace Garuda Stambha in Sri Jagannath Temple  

Puri: In an attempt to protect the Garuda Stambha inside Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri from deterioration, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has decided to bar devotees from touching it in the future.

According to SJTA, this pillar said to be made up of sandalwood is weakening day by day because of the regular touch of lakhs of devotees. The temple administration has made up a plan to cover the whole pillar with silver plating. A stainless steel frame will also come up around the pillar.

The whole work is expected to cost Rs 1.3 crore. A devotee from West Bengal is said to have promised to donate the silver to be used for the purpose.

For centuries devotees of Sri Jagannath believe that all their sins and physical ailments are eradicated by embracing the Garuda Stambha.