Bhubaneswar: The sacred soil of Mayurbhanj is poised to witness a magnificent cultural revival as the state advances a comprehensive project to conserve and elevate the historic Maa Kichakeshwari Temple Complex at Khiching. Spearheaded with profound reverence for Odisha’s priceless heritage, the initiative is being actively pursued under the guidance of Dr. Bijay Ketan Upadhyaya, Secretary of Odia Language, Literature and Culture. The project aims to breathe vibrant new life into the ancient temple precinct while safeguarding its profound spiritual, artistic, and archaeological legacy.
Through a grand vision executed by the Odisha Bridge and Construction Corporation Ltd. in coordination with the Tourism Department, an estimated project cost of eighty-two point two-one crore rupees has been framed to transform the site under the central Swadesh Darshan 2.0 Scheme. The master plan incorporates serene parikrama pathways, ambient public realm illumination, landscaped open spaces, and modern visitor amenities designed to elevate the spiritual journey of every pilgrim arriving at the holy shrine.
A central highlight of this cultural restoration focuses on the site’s historic archaeological museum located within the temple compound. Originally established in 1922 by Maharaja Purna Chandra Bhanj Deo of Mayurbhanj, the museum stands as one of the earliest site museums in Odisha, guarding priceless relics and life-size stone sculptures excavated from the ancient Bhanja capital of Khijjingamandala.
Under the current development phase, the Public Works Department is executing a two crore rupee renovation of the existing museum building under the direction of the District Administration. This critical effort encompasses comprehensive interior refurbishment and essential waterproofing works to ensure that the invaluable ancient idols, rare Buddhist images, intricate chlorite stone carvings, and historic coins housed within are meticulously preserved and eloquently showcased.
Recently, Akshita M. Bhanj Deo, a dynamic member of the Mayurbhanj Royal Family and dedicated co-director of The Belgadia Palace, actively raised concerns regarding the dilapidation and neglect of the historical museums in Baripada and Khiching, bringing renewed urgency to these restoration efforts.
Crucially, this cultural awakening places ancient heritage preservation at its very heart. Having secured the statutory No Objection Certificate from the Directorate of Archaeology, the project builds upon vital structural and chemical conservation already completed on the main temple. Upcoming heritage interventions include paving the surrounding precinct with natural Khondolite stone, rebuilding boundary walls with authentic laterite stone, and restoring the venerable Mritunjaya Mahadev Temple. Executed under strict joint archaeological oversight, all development ensures Khiching emerges as a glowing monument to Odia artistic grandeur and living devotion.