Odisha-born entrepreneur, who is the founder of FinNest Group of Companies – a private equity investment firm, donated £25 million for the construction of UK’s first Jagannath Temple. The Shree Jangannatha Society received the donation early this year, calling it one of the biggest philanthropic contributions to a temple outside of India.
“I am really blessed to be part of this historical journey. Lord Jagannatha has bestowed upon me his blessing, good intention and ability to get this completed after a long wait. I am committed to completing this project,” Bishwanath told India Today. Bishwanath announced his commitment during the first-ever Jagannath Convention held in the UK on Akshaya Trithiya.
The temple, which will be called Shree Jagannatha Mandir London, is being built over a stretch of 15 acres of land. The first phase of the construction is set to be finished by the end of 2024.
Just like the Puri temple, Shree Jagannatha Mandir London will too have the Anand Bazar, the Anna Bhandar and the Tulsi Vatika, along with a convention centre, a dining hall and a parking for thousands of people.
Sukanta Sahu, who is responsible for Shree Jagannatha Society UK outreach, added, “We are not only making a temple, but we are trying to develop a community where we will have a care home where the old will be looked after and there will be a yoga and meditation center along with a music center where classical music will be promoted.”