Patnaik visits Jagannath Temple to pray for 2019 filled with 'happiness and prosperity'

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik was among the thousands of people who visited Shree Jagannath Temple on New Year's Day on Tuesday but he offered prayer from its Lions Gate instead of entering the main shrine. Patnaik, who is known to use Odia sparingly, adressed the people and extended his New Year greetings to them in the language in a video clip on Twitter. Patnaik, who has knee problems, preferred not to climb "Baisi Pahacha" (the 22 steps) and another set of seven steps which lead to the main temple.

He offered prayers near 'Patitapabana' (the symbolic idol of Lord Jagannath near the entrance sorrounded by priests and security personnel. On Monday a release issued by the CMO had said "The Chief Minister developed pain in his knees after the morning exercises and doctors have advised him some rest." "Smastanku nua barsa ra abhinandana! Happy New Year," he said in the video, which showcased some selected moments of 2018 such as visuals of Odisha Mens Hockey World Cup Bhubaneswar among others.

Patnaik wrote in his Twitter handle, "Best wishes to everyone this New Year. I pray to Lord Jagannath that 2019 brings happiness and prosperity to everyone in the State". The chief minister met officials and employes of the state secretariat in the evening. He, however, did not meet the people at his residence in the morning due to the health problem, an official said.

(With inputs from agencies.)