The Odisha Government is mulling launching a television channel dedicated to Lord Jagannath, officials said yesterday. Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan chaired a meeting earlier Thursday, where the proposal was discussed in the presence of senior officials, including Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee.

”There was a positive discussion on setting up a dedicated television channel on Lord Jagannath, the presiding deity of all Odias and the world’s most beloved God, who resides in the hearts of countless people,” Harichandan said, according to a PTI report yesterday.

The Jagannath temple in Puri functions under the Law Department (of the State Government). He said the channel aims to make people aware of the Jagannath culture, which refers to the diverse traditions, rituals, and philosophies centered around Lord Jagannath in Odisha, embodying principles of ‘Unity in Diversity’.

The Minister said that further discussions will be held on the proposal and a complete profile will be prepared. ”The proposal is now at a conceptual stage, and a concrete shape about the channel’s operations and launch timeline is expected to emerge soon,” an official said.

Describing the initial talks as “highly positive and promising,” Minister Harichandan, according to other media reports, stated that the proposed channel would serve as a dynamic platform to introduce Jagannath culture to a global audience, promote scholarly research and meaningful dialogue, and authentically capture the deep devotion and emotions of millions of followers.

He added that the state government is approaching the initiative with strong enthusiasm.