Puri: The Lord Jagannath temple in Puri is set to inaugurate the 'Sreemandir Parikrama Prakalpa' or the temple heritage corridor project on January 17. The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has invited representatives from 90 religious shrines and institutions nationwide for the ceremony. The rituals began on January 12, initiated by Gajapati Maharaja Dibyasingha Deb. The corridor, named the Shri Mandir Parikrama Project, aims to facilitate seamless circumambulation of the temple by devotees and has been prepared at a cost of ₹943 crore.

The rituals started with Gajapati Maharaja Deb extending traditional 'Sri Nahar' invitations on January 12. Subsequent events include 'Ankuropan' and 'Ankur Puja' on January 13, 'Yajna Adhibas' on January 14, and 'Akhand Deepa' placement on January 15, marking the beginning of yagna for the next three days. The puja rituals will culminate on January 17, with Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik officially opening the corridor for devotees. The project features modern amenities like a queue management system, baggage screening, cloakrooms, drinking water provisions, restroom facilities, and more.

The corridor project also sent invitations to major Hindu temples worldwide, including the King of Nepal. The Odisha government compiled an exclusive guest list, including VIPs, corporate leaders, and celebrities. The inauguration event will involve cultural performances, conch shell blowing, and Chief Minister Patnaik's address from a podium at Utterparswa Mutt. Ranjan Kumar Das, chief administrator of the temple, highlighted the project's features, transforming the temple surroundings into a contemporary pilgrim center.

The Lokarpan Yajna is scheduled from January 15 to January 17, featuring Vedic recitations at the temple's four gates. Rigveda, Yajurveda, Samaveda, and Atharvaveda will be recited at the eastern, southern, western, and northern gates, respectively. The project aims to enhance the pilgrim experience, offering modern facilities and preserving the heritage of the Lord Jagannath temple in Puri.

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