The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) is establishing a breastfeeding centre at the 12th-century Jagannath shrine in Puri with an aim to enhance the experience for visiting devotees. The decision was made at a recent meeting headed by SJTA chief administrator Arabinda Padhee, who emphasised the necessity of such a facility.
Padhee pointed out that many mothers visit the temple with their young children, making a dedicated space for them essential for their comfort and privacy. The new centre will be located near the administration's branch office on the temple grounds. It will focus on providing a safe, hygienic, and private environment for both mothers and their infants. Additionally, a female assistant will be available to offer support.
This initiative follows a long-standing public request for a breastfeeding facility at the temple. It also aligns with a broader state-level push to support nursing mothers.
Earlier this month, Odisha's Deputy Chief Minister, Pravati Parida, inaugurated the state's first public breastfeeding centre in Bhubaneswar during 'Breastfeeding Week'. Plans have been announced to roll out similar facilities in public areas across Odisha, including railway stations, bus stands and markets.
Also read: Puri's Jagannath Temple gets 'demolition' threat, probe underway
The state government's goal is to create safe and private spaces for mothers, complete with female attendants to offer assistance. Parida also called on society to help normalise public breastfeeding and urged shopping centres to establish their own breastfeeding rooms, given that women make up a large portion of their customer base.
The SJTA has also, reportedly, confirmed that a new queue system for devotees will be implemented at the Jagannath temple. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan stated that the 'dhadi darshan', or queue system, is set to begin on September 15. This change is being introduced ahead of the auspicious Hindu month of Kartik, a period that typically sees a massive influx of pilgrims to the holy city.
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