Bhubaneswar, 10th Oct 2025: The shrine of Maa Samaleswari is set to be transformed into a world-class pilgrimage site, announced Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi during a review meeting on Wednesday.
To accommodate a growing number of devotees, a multi-storied Bhakta Nivas (pilgrim accommodation) will be constructed. The Chief Minister emphasized that suitable rehabilitation arrangements should be ensured for those displaced due to the temple development project.
The review meeting took place at Lok Seva Bhawan, where the CM evaluated the progress of the Samaleswari Temple Area Development Project, which is being undertaken with an investment of ₹316 crore. The project is being implemented over 82 acres in two phases:
Phase I includes:
- Construction of a corridor around the temple
- Development of the Gopalji Math
- Building of a Deepa Ghar (lamp house)
- Enhanced parking facilities
- Riverfront development
- Other amenities for pilgrims and visitors
- Phase II will focus on:
- Construction of Bhakta Nivas (Pilgrim Residence)
- Creation of a lake zone
- Development of a shopping complex
- Establishment of a food park
- Additional parking areas and entry pathways
Maa Samaleswari Temple, one of Odisha’s most revered Shakti Peethas, draws thousands of devotees and tourists year-round, contributing significantly to the popularity of Sambalpur district on the tourism map of Odisha.
Given the shrine’s national and international appeal, the Chief Minister advised that all development work should match global standards to attract even more visitors.
Attendees at the review meeting included:
- Pritiviraj Harichandan, Minister of Law
- Manoj Ahuja, Chief Secretary
- Sanjay Kumar Singh, Principal Secretary of Works Department
- Shashwat Mishra, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister
- Senior officials and engineers from the Public Works Department
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