Shankaracharya Opposes Beach Shacks Plan in Puri

Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth, Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, opposed the Odisha government's proposal to set up beach shacks along the Puri-Konark shoreline. He emphasized the spiritual significance of Puri and called for a total ban on liquor in the area. Around 40 socio-cultural organizations supported his stance.

Shankaracharya of Govardhan Peeth, Swami Nischalananda Saraswati, expressed strong opposition to the Odisha government’s plan to establish beach shacks along the Puri-Konark coastline.

This opposition coincided with a demonstration by approximately 40 socio-cultural organizations near Shree Jagannath Temple in Puri.

The demonstrators, opposing the BJP government's new excise policy, also called for a complete liquor ban in both the pilgrim town and its beachfront.

Speaking to reporters, Shankaracharya emphasized that Jagannath Dham should remain a place for spiritual pursuits and should not be transformed into an amusement destination. He stated that the Puri beach should be dedicated to religious activities and not be commercialized for pleasure-seeking pursuits.

He argued that the state government’s policy, which included serving liquor to tourists in beach shacks, would harm the spiritual sanctity of the area and tarnish the Jagannath culture.

The seer highlighted that devotees from around the world visit Puri for spiritual reasons, not as tourists seeking entertainment.

Pointing to the spiritual significance of the Puri beach, known as Mahodadhi, Shankaracharya noted its importance for religious activities such as the Mahodadhi Aarti.

This is not the first instance of opposition; Shankaracharya had similarly resisted a proposal by the previous BJD government in 2021, leading to its abandonment.

He called on all followers of Sanatan Dharma to join in opposing the current proposal and urged the state government to reconsider its plans.

Excise department sources, however, indicated that the policy aims to emulate Goa’s beach entertainment model to enhance revenue.

The protestors, including a significant number of women, stated that Puri Sea is regarded as the maternal home of Goddess Lakshmi and deemed the sale of alcohol at the beach as unacceptable.