Ex-Army Personnel Deployed to Enhance Security at Ananda Bazaar in Puri Jagannath Temple

Puri: In a bid to bolster security and ensure the sanctity of the Jagannath Temple’s offerings, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has deployed a team of 20 retired army personnel at the Ananda Bazaar.

Starting today, these ex-army personnel will be on duty in two shifts – from 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM and from 2:00 PM to 10:00 PM – to oversee the activities of servitors and devotees in the area where the Mahaprasad is sold.

The SJTA has implemented strict measures to prevent the sale of stale mahaprasad. Only designated and authorized cooks, as notified by the temple administration, will be permitted to sell the sacred offerings. The behaviour and conduct of all personnel towards devotees will also be closely monitored to maintain decorum.

The sale of Mahaprasad and other prasads will be restricted to designated areas within Ananda Bazaar. No other food products, except those offered to the deities, will be allowed for sale in the area. If necessary, the temple administration will issue identification cards to authorized cooks to avoid any confusion or violations.

Ajay Jena, SJTA Administrator (Development), highlighted the importance of these measures in maintaining the sanctity of the Jagannath Temple and ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for devotees.