Bhubaneswar: The State Government is going to conduct a three-day Bhumipujan (ground breaking) ceremony for ambitious EKAMRA. Prakalp from June 26 here at the project site.
The three day celebration going to be a momentous occasion showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Ekamra Kshetra, officials said on Sunday.
The Bhumipujan rituals will commence tomorrow evening at 7:30 pm with Yagna.
While Secretary to CM, V K Pandian, an ardent devotee of Lord Lingaraj taken the initiative, Team Bhubaneswar led by Balwant Singh, Vice Chairman BDA and Vijay Amruta Kulange have made all arrangements for the ambitious project, which will attract global audience.
The auspicious ceremony will continue for all three days and will be live-streamed on various television channels and social media networks, ensuring that the entire nation can be a part of this grand event, the official said.
The foundation stone laying ceremony, slated for June 28th morning. It willbe graced by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik along with other dignitaries.
This momentous occasion signifies the government’s unwavering commitment to the preservation and revival of Bhubaneswar’s architectural treasures, emphasising their historical significance to a global audience.
During the three-day celebration, visitors and devotees will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Ekamra Kshetra. The Lingaraj Temple, Ananta Basudeva, MukteswarTemple, Bindu Sagar, and other smaller temples will be adorned with soft illuminations, heightening their ethereal beaut.
The sanctity of the occasion will be enhanced through traditional Yajna rituals, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere
Additionally, attendees will have the opportunity to witness captivating sky projections, light and sound show, dance performances at the BMC Market Complex during the three days.
There will be an exhibition featuring a project model and information displays which will furthest enlighten visitors about the remarkable endeavours taking place within Ekamra Kshetra.
Enchanting Bhajan performance will be organised on the evenings from 5:30 pm to 10 pm. Renowned artists such as Hariharan Anantha Subramani, Abhilipsa Panda, Ananda Nanda, Nilandri Kumar, and other esteemed performers will take the stage, delivering soul-stirring renditions that will resonate with the hearts of all visitors.
The Ekamra Prakalp, also known as the Ekamra Kshetra Amenities and Monuments Revival Action plan, was launched by the State Government in 2019.
With an allocated area of 80acres around the revered Shri Lingaraj Temple, including various monuments. holy tanks, and water bodies, the project aims to recreate the magnificence of this ancient heritage precinct.
The Phase-I development, will encompass key highlights such as the restoration of Ekamra Kshetra’s architectural and archaeological heritage.
To improve vehicular movement, a 12-18 meter wide mixed traffic lane will be implemented, alongside 4-10 meter wide shaded walk ways to ensure smooth pedestrian flow.
Similarly, parking facilities will be relocated to the outer periphery of Ekamra Kshetra to alleviate congestion.
Moreover, interconnected landscaped open spaces will be created, providing safe gathering areas for devotees, while a 300 sq meter temple facility will be constructed for the convenience of pilgrims.
Additionally, a 1,600 sq meter Information & Control Centre will be set up to cater to emergency services.
To facilitate easy access to ritual spaces and Ekamra Van, a dedicated pedestrian path around Bindusagar will be constructed.
Furthermore, the project will create interconnected landscaped open spaces, a temple facility for pilgrims, and an Information & Control Centre for emergency services.
It seeks to provide a harmonious blend of modern amenities and the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring a transformative experience for visitors and devotees alike.
The Ekamra Prakalp initiative exemplifies the government’s steadfast commitment to preserving and reviving Bhubaneswar’s ancient heritage precinct.
The Odisha Bridge Construction Corporation (OBCC) has been trusted with executing the project, and the tender has been finalised, with works scheduled to commence soon.
The State Government invited all to join this remarkable journey and celebrate the glorious past of Bhubaneswar’s architectural treasures, ensuring their rightful place in the present and future.