Jamshedpur: President Draupadi Murmu laid the foundation stone of the Shri Jagannath Spiritual and Cultural Charitable Centre in Kadma, Jamshedpur on Thursday. The ceremony witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, MP Bidyut Baran Mahato, and MLAs Purnima Sahu and Saryu Rai.
During her short visit, the President also interacted with students of Tata Manipal Medical College in Baridih, emphasizing the importance of youth development alongside spiritual and cultural education.
President Murmu Highlights Spiritual Awareness and Equality
Addressing the gathering, President Murmu stressed the significance of spiritual consciousness, stating that the proposed centre will provide hostel facilities to ensure education for underprivileged children.
She remarked, “It is said that Jagannath’s prasadam (bhog) spreads blessings to the world; do not ask about caste or creed.” The President highlighted that in the eyes of Lord Jagannath, everyone is equal, underlining the inclusive and humanitarian vision of the spiritual centre.
Replica of 12th Century Jagannath Temple in Odisha
The Shri Jagannath Spiritual and Cultural Charitable Centre Trust, managed by industrialist S.K. Behera, plans to develop the centre as a replica of the 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Puri, Odisha.
The project will be constructed on a 2.5-acre site along the Kharkhai River, with an estimated cost of approximately ₹100 crore. The centre is expected to:
- Boost religious tourism in Jharkhand
- Serve as a hub for youth character building and ethical development
- Promote holistic personality development for students pursuing higher education
Presence of National and Industrial Leaders
The inauguration ceremony was attended by key figures including Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Jharkhand Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, CM Hemant Soren, and Tata Steel CEO & MD T.V. Narendran. Upon arrival at Ranchi Airport, President Murmu was warmly received by the Chief Minister and the Governor.
To ensure a safe and secure event, the East Singhbhum district administration implemented strict security arrangements.
Focus on Youth Development and Cultural Promotion
The Shri Jagannath Spiritual and Cultural Centre is expected to become a prominent destination for religious tourism while reinforcing the cultural identity of Jamshedpur. The Trust aims to develop it as a centre for moral and ethical education, promoting comprehensive personal development for young people.
S.K. Behera highlighted that the centre will support holistic personality growth of students and serve as a model for integrating spirituality, culture, and education.
