TV
The Odisha government has intensified efforts to rejuvenate Ekamra Kshetra, the historic temple precinct in Bhubaneswar, as part of a broader heritage revitalisation programme.
A high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi last week placed the spotlight on the redevelopment of the Lingaraj Temple area, noting the need for urgency for both conservation and urban decongestion, stated a post by the Chief Minister’s Office on X.
Notably, the Ekamra Kshetra initiative is aimed at restoring the spiritual core of Bhubaneswar, which is home to hundreds of ancient Shaivite shrines surrounding the 11th-century Lingaraj Temple.
Among the key priorities outlined were improving road connectivity, building dedicated parking facilities, and restoring neglected temples in collaboration with the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to preserve the sanctity and historical integrity of the area.
Integrated Development at Ghatagaon’s Maa Tarini Pitha
The meeting also reviewed progress on the Maa Tarini Pitha project at Ghatagaon in Keonjhar, which is being executed across 59 acres in four phases, reported The New Indian Express.
Designed as an integrated spiritual and civic development model, the Rs 224.7 crore project includes a 200-bed Yatri Niwas, a 300-seat auditorium, a food plaza, parking zones, a market complex, and other basic infrastructure.
The project, expected to be completed in two and a half years, aims to accommodate increasing footfall while enhancing pilgrim amenities.
In addition to the physical infrastructure, plans have been made to relocate informal vendors and shops around the shrine into a structured marketplace to improve aesthetics and accessibility.
Maa Biraja Temple Parikrama Project in Jajpur
Parallel developments are underway at Maa Biraja Temple in Jajpur, one of Odisha’s ancient Shakti Peethas.
The Parikrama Project here is also being implemented in four phases and encompasses beautification of the temple complex, renovation of sacred ponds like Brahma Kund and Hathi Pokhari, the creation of Biraja Haat, and construction of a dharmashala and an auditorium for religious gatherings.
All three projects, Ekamra Kshetra, Maa Tarini Pitha, and Maa Biraja Temple, form part of a coordinated push by the state to blend heritage conservation with urban planning, improve visitor experience, and position Odisha’s spiritual landmarks as culturally immersive destinations.
