Odisha: At Puri Swargadwara, cow dung may replace wood for cremation

Jagannath culture researcher Naresh Das said as per Hindu religious traditions, only wood is used for cremation.

According to Hindu religious practice, Swargadwara is considered to be the most auspicious place for cremation. It functions 24x7. Approximately 40 cremations take place daily. (File)

Cow dung-based biofuel and pellets are likely to replace firewood at Swargadwara in Puri for cremation. “We will urge people to consider using cow dung-based biofuel for cremation. Cow dung has huge significance in Hindu religious practice. It will also have no impact on the environment compared,” said Odisha Minister Gokulananda Mallik.

Before taking a final decision, Mallik said that the government will seek inputs from the committee managing the Swargadwara. A committee headed by a deputy Chief Minister, comprising senior ministers and secretaries, will also be formed by the government.

“It will look into different aspects like better utilisation of cow dung and cow urine, protection of cows, including expansion of shelters and enhancing diary production in the state,” said Mallik.

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According to Hindu religious practice, Swargadwara is considered to be the most auspicious place for cremation. It functions 24×7. Approximately 40 cremations take place daily.

Jagannath culture researcher Naresh Das said as per Hindu religious traditions, only wood is used for cremation. “If the government introduces cow dung-based biofuel, it will hurt people’s religious sentiments,” said Das. Senior Jagannath Temple servitor Binayak Dasmohapatra said the rituals at Puri Swargadwara is different and even electric furnace is not used.

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