SJTA orders probe into iron kadhai use for Mahaprasad at Jagannath Temple

Bhubaneswar, Sept 13: Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the Chief Administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), on Friday initiated an investigation into claims that Mahaprasad, the sacred food offered to Lord Jagannath, was being prepared in an iron vessel rather than the traditional clay pot. Padhee has instructed that a detailed action-taken report be submitted within a week.

The investigation was prompted by allegations that the Mahaprasad was being cooked in a steel kadhai, which deviates from the customary practice. The report must include the iron kadhai allegedly used in the preparation. The responsibility for this task has been assigned to the Sura, Mahasuara, Roshpaik Nijog, and Rosh Amin groups.

Additionally, a three-member team consisting of Pattjoshi Mohapatra, Talichcha Mohapatra, and Deulkaran has been appointed to conduct a thorough inspection of the Srimandir Roshasala (temple kitchen).

The use of an iron kadhai is considered a violation of traditional practices associated with Lord Jagannath's rituals. The Suar and Mahasuara Niyoga had previously raised concerns and formally communicated their objections to the temple administration.

Dr. Padhee emphasized that any deviation from traditional practices will be addressed firmly to ensure the preservation of the cultural heritage of Shree Jagannath Temple.

It is important to note that the use of iron kadhai began during the COVID-19 pandemic due to a shortage of clay pots.