Odisha Govt Bans Online Sale of Jagannath Mahaprasad – SJTA to enforce fixed prices, separate counters, and Omfed ghee rules to protect sanctity
OdishaPlus Bureau
The revered Mahaprasad of Lord Jagannath in Puri is not available for online sale, as its sanctity is distinctly unparalleled, as stated by Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan on Monday. According to Minister Harichandan, some organizations had approached the temple administration to explore the possibility of delivering either dry bhog or Mahaprasad to remote locations via online services.
However, both the Odisha government and the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) have declined to grant permission, citing the need to preserve the sanctity of the site. The Minister also mentioned that a new rate chart will be displayed at Anand Bazar shortly. Discussions on this issue have already been finalized.
In the meantime, to promote discipline and enhance the overall experience for devotees, the SJTA has taken measures to optimize the operations of Anand Bazar within the Puri Srimandir premises.
The administration plans to implement a fixed pricing structure for Abadha and ‘Sukhili Bhog’ items to eliminate irregularities and ensure transparency. Separate counters will be set up for the sale and consumption of ‘Sukhili Bhog’ and Mahaprasad. Additionally, the SJTA has mandated that only Omfed ghee be utilized in the preparation of bhog. Actions will be taken against Suar and Mahasuar servitors who do not adhere to this regulation.