On Sunday, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited Shreekshetra to offer prayers at the Lord Jagannath temple, asking for peace and prosperity for the residents of his state. He was joined by his wife, Kaushalya Sai, and their daughter, Smriti Sai.

The visiting chief minister was welcomed near the Singhadwara by Puri Collector Dibyajyoti Parida and senior temple servitors. Inside the historic 12th-century temple, Sai had the opportunity to see the Chaturdha Vigraha, which includes Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Devi Subhadra. Following that, he prayed at the shrines of Maa Bimala, Maa Lakshmi, and other deities.

Sai described his visit as a rare blessing, emphasizing that he prayed for the happiness, prosperity, and welfare of the people in Chhattisgarh. He also highlighted the deep historical and spiritual connections between Odisha and Chhattisgarh, which extend beyond mere political matters.

This pilgrimage marked the second day of his trip to Odisha, following discussions in Bhubaneswar with Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. Regarding the ongoing Mahanadi water-sharing dispute, Sai mentioned that both states have agreed to adhere to the Central Water Commission’s decision, expressing optimism for a swift resolution. Ongoing discussions between the two governments continue, having been initiated during a meeting chaired by the Union Jal Shakti Minister in New Delhi on July 30.

For Puri, this visit was a reminder of the cultural significance of Jagannath that transcends Odisha. For Sai, it was a personal experience as well as a political statement—a family pilgrimage to a temple revered by millions, coupled with a message of unity among neighboring states in their shared governance of the river.