Just days before the grand inauguration of the Jagannath Temple in Digha, an unexpected incident has created a stir. On Sunday, a wooden idol of Lord Jagannath mysteriously washed ashore at the newly constructed ghat in Digha. The sight drew large crowds of curious tourists, many of whom had come to the beach town ahead of the temple’s opening.
The coastal town is already buzzing with excitement as preparations for the grand inauguration are in full swing. A special yajna (ritual) is scheduled for April 29, and the official opening of the temple will be led by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on April 30. Tourists have already started arriving in large numbers to catch a glimpse of the soon-to-be-inaugurated temple.
Amid this festive mood, Sunday’s unusual event at the new Jagannath Ghat took everyone by surprise. As waves rolled in, a white wooden idol of Lord Jagannath appeared on the shore. Tourists, enjoying a dip in the sea, were the first to notice it. They quickly gathered around the idol and eventually carried it to the ghat. The origin of the idol remains unknown, but the timing has added to the significance of the event.
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is expected to visit Digha on April 27. On April 28, she will hold meetings with the temple’s trustee board and state officials. April 29 will mark the ritual ceremonies, followed by the temple’s official inauguration on April 30. In preparation for the event, all government-run hotels and guest houses in Digha have already been booked by the administration.
