Puri: In a significant move, the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has disallowed the servitors of Mahalaxmi temple to meddle in day-to-day affairs of the shrine located on Srimandir precincts.
SJTA chief administrator PK Jena disclosed a decision to this effect before the media after meeting servitors of Mahalaxmi shrine Tuesday. “The SJTA will lay down certain guidelines for proper management of the Mahalaxmi temple. Henceforth, servitors of the shrine will not be allowed to collect donations from devotees. Srimandir administration will accept all donations made to the temple,” Jena said.
According to Jena, SJTA administrator (rituals) will undertake quarterly review of the affairs of Mahalaxmi shrine. Besides, the Srimandir administration will enforce a code of conduct for the servitors.
Mahalaxmi temple was in news recently after reports claimed that the golden headgear (kirita) of the deity has been broken due to poor maintenance. Subsequently, it came to light that the shrine does not come under the administrative control of the SJTA.
“We will take steps to repair the broken ornaments of the Goddess. All these decorative pieces will be stored at Srimandir central showroom. The SJTA will finalise certain norms for safe storage of the ornaments. Servitors will be asked to report the Srimandir administration regarding any damage to gold jewellery,” Jena said.
Sources said the SJTA will soon take control over all ornaments and other precious items stored at the Mahalaxmi temple. “The SJTA will also prepare guidelines for the management of all subsidiary temples at the 12th century shrine,” Jena claimed.
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