Puri, one of India’s holiest pilgrimage sites, is set to undergo a significant transformation as the Odisha government has decided to implement a ban on the sale of liquor and non-vegetarian food within a 2-kilometre radius of the iconic Shree Jagannath Temple and its arterial road, Bada Danda.
Odisha’s Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan revealed that the prohibition will apply year-round and be formalised through the state’s new excise policy. “Puri is an international pilgrimage centre, and maintaining its sanctity is paramount,” Harichandan told the media. The district administration has been directed to ensure no liquor bars operate within the designated radius, and efforts are underway to enforce a complete ban on both liquor and non-vegetarian food sales in the area. This move aligns with the state’s broader vision to elevate Puri’s status as a premier spiritual and tourism hub.
In addition to the ban, the government is working on a plan to standardise the aesthetic of buildings along Bada Danda, the grand road leading to Srimandir. Harichandan revealed that a blueprint is being prepared to ensure all structures in the area adhere to a uniform architectural design, including consistent height and appearance. “The goal is to make every house along Bada Danda reflect the essence of a pilgrimage city,” he said. Advanced technology will be employed to execute this ambitious project, aiming to position Puri as a world-class tourism destination.
This initiative is part of a larger effort to modernise Puri while retaining its cultural and spiritual heritage. The state government has been investing in infrastructure upgrades, including the recently completed Shree Mandir Parikrama Project, which enhances the temple’s accessibility and aesthetic appeal. By combining the new ban with architectural standardisation, Odisha aims to create a cohesive and sacred environment that appeals to both pilgrims and tourists.
The implementation of the ban and the architectural overhaul will be closely monitored, with the district administration tasked with ensuring compliance. The new excise policy, expected to be rolled out in the coming months, will provide a legal framework for these restrictions.
