In a landmark initiative blending timeless devotion with cutting-edge technology, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi today inaugurated the state-of-the-art digital hundi “Samarpan” at the Shree Jagannath Temple Administration office in Puri, just a day before the sacred Rath Yatra.
Developed by the Odisha Computer Application Centre (OCAC) under the Electronics and Information Technology Department in collaboration with the Shree Jagannatha Temple Administration (SJTA), the secure digital platform allows devotees worldwide to offer their heartfelt donations to Shri Jagannath Mahaprabhu directly from the comfort of their homes.
Addressing the media, CM Majhi described the launch as more than a technological upgrade. “Digital Hundi – Samarpan is not just a tech-based reform. It is a sacred and transparent bridge that will connect the devotion and surrender of crores of Jagannath lovers across the globe with Shree Mandir,” he said. He added that the funds collected would be utilised for the overall development, preservation, and maintenance of the temple.
The user-friendly mobile app and web portal enable devotees to log in effortlessly using their mobile number and OTP. Donations can be made starting from as little as ₹1 with no upper limit. Multiple convenient payment options are available, including UPI, internet banking, debit/credit cards, and WhatsApp. Successful transactions are instantly followed by a downloadable digital receipt.
Devotees contributing to the temple’s repair, renovation, and corpus funds can also avail income tax benefits by providing their PAN details. Beyond donations, the app functions as a complete digital companion, offering temple information, daily ritual announcements, latest updates, and the facility to book rooms at Bhakta Niwas for pilgrims visiting Puri.
Chief Minister Majhi emphasised that the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to transparent, people-centric governance while making spiritual participation easier for lakhs of Jagannath Premis in India and abroad.
The launch ceremony was attended by Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan, Commerce & Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, Puri MP Dr Sambit Patra, Pipili MLA Ashrit Pattanayak, Satyabadi MLA Om Prakash Mishra, Chief Secretary Anu Garg, Additional Chief Secretary (I&PR) Hemant Kumar Sharma, and SJTA Chief Administrator Dr Arabind Kumar Padhee.
This innovative step promises to bring millions of devotees closer to Mahaprabhu’s divine feet, ensuring a clean, secure, and time-saving way to express their faith — right before the grand Rath Yatra begins.
