Puri Srimandir cracks down on illegal Mahaprasad sales outside temple

Puri, Nov 11: The SJTA in Puri has stepped up its efforts to curb the unauthorised sale of Mahaprasad outside the temple premises. Taking a strong stand against the practice, the temple's Chief Administrator has clarified that selling Mahaprasad outside Srimandir is against the established rules.

The development comes after reports emerged of Mahaprasad being sold in plates outside the temple, particularly near the northern gate. The administration has reportedly lodged a complaint at Singhadwar Police Station against those allegedly involved in bringing Mahaprasad outside the temple and selling it in violation of the rules.

Chief Administrator Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee stated that there is no provision permitting the sale of Mahaprasad outside the Srimandir premises. He also indicated that discussions have been held with servitors to introduce a more organised system for selling Mahaprasad and dry offerings at Ananda Bazaar after the Kartik month.

Price Chart to Be Introduced at Ananda Bazaar

To bring greater transparency to Mahaprasad sales, the temple administration is planning to introduce an official price chart at Ananda Bazaar after Kartika month.

The proposed arrangement aims to ensure that devotees receive Mahaprasad at appropriate prices while preventing confusion, overcharging and irregularities in the marketplace.

Discussions have also focused on improving the management of stalls, maintaining discipline and ensuring a smoother purchasing experience for devotees visiting the temple.

Suar Mahasuar Nijog Puts Forward Nine-Point Demand

Meanwhile, the Suar Mahasuar Nijog has submitted a nine-point set of demands to bring discipline and transparency to Ananda Bazaar.

One of its key proposals is to establish a dedicated Mahaprasad counter near either the northern or southern gate of the temple. The counter would help devotees who cannot enter the temple premises due to heavy crowds or restrictions during ritual periods.

Under the proposal, devotees could place orders through representatives of the Suar Mahasuar Nijog and receive Mahaprasad at reasonable prices.

Other important proposals include:
Introduction of an official price list for Mahaprasad and dry offerings.
Numbering of every stall at Ananda Bazaar.
Identity cards for stall assistants and authorised personnel.
Better monitoring and management of Mahaprasad sales.
Measures to maintain discipline and prevent irregularities in the marketplace.
The proposed measures are aimed at making Ananda Bazaar more organised, transparent and convenient for devotees.

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Devotees Allegedly Targeted by Middlemen
The issue has gained attention following restrictions on devotees entering the temple during periods when public darshan is suspended. Devotees waiting to obtain Mahaprasad have allegedly become vulnerable to middlemen taking advantage of the situation.

The temple administration's latest move is expected to address these concerns and strengthen the system for the sale and distribution of Mahaprasad.

With discussions underway between the administration and servitors, devotees are hopeful that the proposed reforms will bring greater discipline to Ananda Bazaar and help preserve the sanctity and traditional practices associated with Mahaprasad.