Mahaprasad Sale: Ex-Army personnel to monitor Mahaprasad sale at Puri temple | Bhubaneswar News
Bhubaneswar: Retired Army personnel are going to be deployed in Anand Bazaar, on the Puri Jagannath Temple premises, according to a decision by the shrine management. The former Army personnel will be engaged to streamline operations and enhance security in Anand Bazaar, where the Mahaprasad is sold to devotees.
“The primary role of these security personnel will be to ensure that the Mahaprasad is sold exclusively by authorised servitors.They will also keep tabs if food prepared outside the temple is being sold in Anand Bazaar. Additionally, individuals running multiple shops will also be restricted from doing business,” Ajay Jena, temple administrator (development), said on Wednesday.
The decision to deploy retired Army personnel was decided in the managing committee meeting of the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA). Around 20 former defence personnel will be engaged from Sept 1. They will undergo training and will be engaged in shifts. Their presence is expected to enhance the overall experience of devotees visiting the Anand Bazaar while preserving the traditions and sanctity of the temple.
“The behaviour and conduct of prasad sellers towards devotees inside Ananda Bazaar will also be monitored by these personnel. A food safety officer is there to check the quality of food. The personnel will also check if stale food is being sold to devotees,” Jena maintained.
The SJTA is planning to provide identity cards to authorised cooks to avoid confusion and manipulation of any kind. This measure aims to uphold the sanctity of the Mahaprasad and ensure devotees receive only the highest quality offerings.
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