Sambalpur: The Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has approved sanction of Rs 9.32 crore for the development of Hingula Temple in Talcher, informed Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan who had earlier sought final assistance for the development of the shrine.
“I have been informed that MCL Board has approved sanction of Rs.9.32 Cr. under their CSR Fund for construction of certain facilities at Gopalprasad, Talcher, Angul, Odisha, for benefit of the local population in general and for providing impetus to tourism in the area in particular,” said Pradhan.
The Union Minister further said, “MCL has a special bond with the Maa Hingula Temple in Gopalprasad. I was touched to know about the generosity of MCL employees, who voluntarily contributed funds from their salary towards the construction of the main temple building.”
“I also understand that recently, the Maa Hingula Thakurani Trust Board, Gopalprasad, Talcher had submitted a proposal to the management of MCL for CSR project involving construction of Natya Mandapa and Jagyan Mandapa of an estimated cost of Rs. 16.64 crores. These developments will not only improve the devotee facilities and experience at the temple but also boost tourist footfalls in the region,” he added.
Maa Hingula temple at Gopalprasad in Talcher is considered one of the most sacred religious sites in Odisha. The temple is believed to have been built by the mythical King Nala of Vidharbha as his tribute to Lord Jagannath. The fire used to cook Mahaprasad in the kitchens of the Jagannath temple at Puri symbolically represents Maa Hingula.