Sambalpur: Devotees Deprived of Annabhog at Samlei Temple Since COVID, Prasad Sales Still Halted
Temple Renovations Leave Bhog Ghar Out
Temporary Arrangements Expected Within a Month: Trust Board
Sambalpur: Devotees of Maa Samaleswari, Western Odisha’s revered deity, have been without the sacred Annabhog for more than four years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the temple’s grand renovation, which has transformed it into a symbol of devotion, faith, and splendor, the once-cherished ritual of distributing Annabhog has yet to resume. The renovations, which cost over ₹200 crores, have attracted countless devotees from India and abroad. However, the absence of the Annabhog has left many devotees dissatisfied.
Bhog Ghar Missing After Renovations
The Annabhog, previously priced at ₹40, consisted of rice, dal, vegetables, and khatta, with additional offerings such as kheer and traditional sweets during festivals. The Bhog Ghar, once located on the ground floor of the two-story building near the pond, provided seating for devotees to enjoy their meal. A few devotees could also dine in the area next to the main temple. However, due to COVID restrictions in 2020, Annabhog sales have ceased, and the Bhog Ghar has been dismantled as part of the temple’s renovation project.
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Renovation Project’s Impact on Prasad’s Distribution
The first phase of the Samalei renovation project was finished, and the new temple structure was dedicated on January 27. Despite this, Annabhog distribution has not resumed, leaving devotees from all over disappointed as they return home. The Trust Board promised that after the renovations, a new permanent Bhog Ghar would be established, but this promise has yet to be fulfilled. Even the Trust Board is unsure of the Bhog Ghar’s current location.
Trust Board’s Plan for Temporary Bhog Ghar
Trust Board Chairman Sanjay Babu explained that the renovation project began concurrently with plans to resume Annabhog sales post-COVID, resulting in additional delays. Despite repeated requests from the OBCC and the construction agency in charge of the project, Bhog Ghar’s reconstruction was overlooked. Now, the Trust Board has taken the initiative to build a temporary Bhog Ghar near the Pilgrim Facility. The design is complete, and the Trust Board expects to resume Annabhog distribution within a month.
