The development board of the Marda Jagannath temple, situated near Mathura in Odisha’s Ganjam district, has appealed to the state government for financial assistance to support the daily rituals and maintenance of the over 300-year-old temple, an official reported.

The temple holds significant historical importance as it served as a sanctuary for the deities of the Jagannath temple in Puri during the period of 1733-1735 AD. At that time, Kalingan style temples were frequently targeted by invaders intent on their destruction. A temple priest shared this historical insight, underscoring the temple’s crucial role during those tumultuous years.

However, after the threat subsided and the deities returned to their original abode at Srikhetra-Puri, the Marda Jagannath temple was left empty. Despite its storied past, the temple now requires funds to preserve its structure and ensure the continuation of its traditional rituals.

Local residents emphasize the temple’s cultural and historical significance, urging prompt support to maintain this ancient site.