Kolkata: West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has arrived in the coastal town and tourism hotspot Digha to oversee preparations for the newly-built Jagannath Temple’s first-ever Rath Yatra. On June 27 (Friday), CM Banerjee will inaugurate the Yatra.
On that occasion, Banerjee will ceremonially sweep the road with a golden broom and pull the chariot’s rope. Initially, she planned to travel to Digha from Dumarjala helipad by air. However, due to adverse weather conditions, she travelled by road and made several unscheduled stops. At Kanthi, she met local people and also the TMC workers. At the Marishda police station, she spoke with officers.
With the state Assembly election scheduled to be held in 2026, this Rath Yatra holds immense importance. It is the first Yatra since the temple’s inauguration, which has been built for Rs 250 crore to rival the Jagannath Temple in Puri. The length of the chariot procession’s route will be around one kilometre, with the new Jagannath temple and the old shrine being the starting and endpoints. According to the authorities, 2 to 2.5 lakh devotees are expected to participate in the event.
Security ramped up in Digha
Meanwhile, Banerjee has issued strict orders to the police, the fire department, and public officials to closely monitor the situation. The CM has reached Digha in advance to review the implementation of her orders. With her arrival, security has been increased in Digha.
In a Facebook post, Banerjee wrote, “It is a matter of immense pride that Jagannath Dham in Digha, the sacred abode of Lord Jagannath, has already begun to bring joy to countless devotees, while simultaneously revitalising the local economy and transforming Digha into a year-round destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.”
She added, “As we prepare for the first-ever Rath Yatra to be held on the shores of Digha, the anticipation among the people is truly palpable. I have personally arrived here in advance to oversee the final arrangements and to see to it that every aspect, be it security, crowd management, or emergency preparedness, is in place to make this a safe, smooth, and soul-stirring experience for all. Our state administration has worked tirelessly to ensure this celebration reflects the dignity that befits the Lord of the Universe.”
She further wrote, “Bengal is the land of Sri Chaitanya Mahaprabhu, Ramakrishna Paramahansa, Maa Sarada, Swami Vivekananda and so many others. Ours is a land that believes in compassion, inclusivity, and the unity of all beings. With Lord Jagannath’s blessings, we shall continue to move forward, towards progress, peace, and prosperity for all. Joy Jagannath. Joy Bangla.”
