Interview Times 
BHUBANESWAR: The Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) has approached the Odisha State Cooperative Milk Producers Federation (OMFED) to set up a dedicated depot for supplying ghee exclusively to the iconic 12th-century Jagannath Temple in Puri. This move follows a decision by temple authorities to use only OMFED ghee for various temple activities, including the preparation of Mahaprasad and the lighting of traditional earthen lamps.
In an official letter to OMFED’s Managing Director, Dr. Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the SJTA’s Chief Administrator, requested support for opening a separate depot to ensure a smooth and reliable supply of OMFED ghee for the temple’s daily rituals.
Dr. Padhee emphasized the importance of using OMFED ghee to maintain the authenticity and purity of the offerings inside the temple. This decision, which was made after thorough discussions with temple authorities and servitor bodies, is intended to prevent the use of adulterated or low-quality ghee in the temple’s sacred practices.
Additionally, the SJTA has asked OMFED to consider reducing the price of ghee, in response to requests from several servitor groups involved in temple activities. A price reduction would help make the daily supply more affordable for the temple’s ongoing requirements.
To ensure the exclusive use of OMFED ghee, Dr. Padhee has instructed the temple management to take necessary precautions, including ordering senior supervisors and commanders to enforce the rule strictly. He has also warned that any attempt to bring in unauthorized ghee will result in strict action.
This initiative is part of a larger effort by the SJTA to maintain the sanctity and tradition of temple rituals while ensuring that high-quality, locally produced products are used in the service of Lord Jagannath.
