Odisha Moves to Trademark Jagannath Temple Terminology, Tightens Norms
Srimandir Committee seeks IP rights for sacred terms like ‘Mahaprasad’ and ‘Jagannath Dham’; height norms, festival conduct also under stricter regulation
In a landmark move to preserve the sanctity and cultural heritage of one of India’s most revered temples, the Srimandir Management Committee in Puri on Monday approved a proposal to seek intellectual property rights for several terms intrinsically linked to the Jagannath Temple and its traditions.
At a high-level meeting held in Puri, the committee resolved to pursue trademarks and patents for expressions such as ‘Srimandir,’ ‘Jagannath Dham,’ ‘Mahaprasad,’ ‘Shrikshetra,’ ‘Purushottam Dham,’ and the temple’s official logo.
The decision follows growing concerns over the casual and, at times, commercial misuse of these sacred terms outside their intended religious and cultural context.
Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Dr Arabinda Padhee confirmed the move, stating, “It has been approved in Monday’s high-level meeting. Applications for patents and trademarks will be filed soon to preserve the sanctity of these expressions.”
The committee also raised alarm over high-rise buildings encroaching upon the visual sanctity of the 12th-century shrine. It resolved to urge the urban development department to introduce strict height restrictions and construction norms around Srimandir and Gundicha Temple to protect their architectural prominence.
In preparation for the upcoming Rath Yatra, the committee also decided to clamp down on unauthorized activities. Non-servitors climbing the ceremonial chariots or engaging in prohibited acts will face legal action, while servitors using mobile phones during rituals will be subject to criminal cases.
“These measures reflect a broader effort by the Odisha government and temple authorities to safeguard both the tangible and intangible heritage of Lord Jagannath’s abode,” said Dr Arun Kumar Nayak, a researcher on Jagannath culture.
