Transforming the Kichakeswari Temple: A Rs 52.93 Crore Development Plan Unveiled
Revitalization of the Kichakeswari Temple
Baripada: A comprehensive development plan valued at Rs 52.93 crore has been crafted for the enhancement of the esteemed Maa Kichakeswari temple located in Khiching, within the Mayurbhanj district.
This initiative is part of the Central government's PRASHAD scheme (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Augmentation Drive), which is managed by the Ministry of Tourism.
The objective of this plan is to improve the temple's infrastructure and elevate the overall pilgrimage experience by developing the destination and upgrading tourism amenities. Once the project receives approval, the historic temple is anticipated to serve as a benchmark for spiritual sites and could significantly contribute to regional development.
Khiching, which was once the capital of the princely state of Mayurbhanj, is already recognized as a key tourist attraction. In support of the temple's revitalization, President Droupadi Murmu visited the site on February 29, 2024, and confirmed its inclusion in the PRASHAD initiative.
Following this announcement, a committee was established, and after receiving the green light from the State Integrated Plan Approval Committee (SIPAC), the Odisha Tourism department formulated a detailed development strategy.
The proposal encompasses 34 projects, including the construction of a heritage gate, restoration of the Mrutyunjaya Mahadev Temple, beautification of the temple pond, upgrades to roads and transport, a bus stand and parking area, public parks, a Kalyan Mandap (community hall), a yagna mandap (ritual pavilion), enhancements to the temple's facade, development of a pilgrims’ resting area (Yatra Padia), a dining hall, a cultural marketplace (Anand Bazaar), a museum, and guest accommodations.
Officials have stated that work on these proposed projects will commence once final approval is secured.
An official remarked that this initiative is expected to boost tourist traffic in the region and elevate the site's status in global tourism.