Jamshedpur: In a major spiritual and cultural push for Jharkhand, President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the ₹100-crore Shri Jagannath Spiritual and Cultural Centre at Marine Drive (Anil Sur Path) in Kadma.
The President unveiled the commemorative plaque and took part in a traditional Bhoomi Pujan, with Vedic rituals performed by priests associated with the famed Jagannath Temple. Devotional chants filled the venue as dignitaries, industrial leaders, community representatives and devotees gathered for the ceremony.
President Droupadi Murmu participated in the Bhoomi pujan ceremony of Sri Jagannath Temple at Jamshedpur, Jharkhand. The President said that in our spiritual tradition, the greatest emphasis is placed on the feeling of love and compassion for all living beings and plants.… pic.twitter.com/RS3nuMOby8
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 26, 2026
Inspired by Puri’s Timeless Legacy
Designed as a near replica of the 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Puri, the upcoming complex seeks to mirror Odisha’s iconic temple architecture and devotional ethos. Spread over nearly 2.5 acres along the Kharkhai riverfront, the project aims to evolve into a full-fledged spiritual and cultural hub rather than merely a place of worship.
While the broader centre is expected to be ready within two years, construction of the main temple structure is projected to take around four years.
A Hub for Youth, Values and Cultural Learning
To be managed by the Shri Jagannath Spiritual and Cultural Charitable Centre Trust, the campus is envisioned as a space for spiritual discourse, value-based education and personality development, particularly targeting the youth. Plans include facilities for moral education, cultural programmes and community engagement.
President Murmu lauded the Trust and its managing members, especially S.K. Behera and his team, for conceptualising and steering the ambitious initiative.
Leaders Hail Landmark Project
Chief Minister Hemant Soren, described the project as a visionary step that would strengthen social and cultural foundations. He expressed confidence that the centre would emerge as a prominent spiritual landmark in the state.
Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, Jamshedpur MP Bidyut Baran Mahto and MLA Saryu Roy were among those present. Prominent industrialists, including T. V. Narendran, also attended the event.
Boost to Steel City’s Cultural Identity
Residents have welcomed the project as a transformative addition to the Steel City’s evolving identity. Beyond its religious significance, the centre is expected to host spiritual discourses, cultural festivals and community events — reinforcing Jamshedpur’s stature not just as an industrial powerhouse, but as an emerging centre of faith, heritage and cultural pride.
