Kendrapara: About 12 stones from the dome (Dadhi Nauti) of the century-old Binod Bihari Jew Temple at Ganamahala Chowk fell after the temple was struck by lightning on Monday evening.
The limestone plaster around the Dadhi Nauti had already become loose where the stones were lodged. According to Umakanta Singh, a member of the Binod Bihari Jew Temple, lightning struck the Dadhi Nauti while a bhajan and kirtan were being performed.
As a result, stones weighing about a quintal fell from the Dadhi Nauti, causing damage to the temple structure. The Binod Bihari Jew Temple is considered an important monument known for its architectural design, delicate carvings, and religious significance.
According to an inscription in the temple precincts, the shrine of Binod Bihari was established by Sri Ram Govind Jagaddev in 1868 AD under the supervision of Sri Gopaldas Babajee.
The presiding deity of the temple is Sri Krishna, along with his consort Sri Radha. The images are made of black chlorite stone. Festivals like Nanda Utsav and Giri Govardhan Puja, which are associated with the life and activities of Sri Krishna, are observed here with great pomp and ceremony.
The locals have urged the District Tourist Officer and the District Collector to take immediate steps and request the ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) to repair and maintain the century-old Binod Bihari Temple.