Rourkela: The Vedvyas Dham will soon see a complete image transformation as the government has sanctioned additional funds for the project. This famous religious tourism destination is a leading Shaivite shrine. The shrine is witnessing massive development work and the additional state government funds will spur the process. The Odisha government has sanctioned an additional Rs 14.50 crore for the development of the Vedvyas Dham. This information was provided by PWD executive engineer Manoj Kumar Mahananda here Tuesday. “An additional Rs 14.50 crore has been sanctioned for the developmental purpose of Vedvyas. Soon, tenders will be floated for major work on the gates and other areas of the shrine,” Mahananda said.
Earlier this year, 5T Secretary VK Pandian visited Vedvyas Dham, January 14. He was briefed about the place by officials. During his interaction with officials, Pandian stressed the need for total development of the place keeping in tune with the state government’s decision to develop all major religious destinations that draw massive crowds for festivals. “Vedvyas has tremendous potential as a religious tourism destination and we are going to take all steps to develop this place. The government will do everything to give it a new look,” Pandian said.
Currently the main gate, 29 metres in height and 29 metres wide is in the last phase of construction. A four-lane road with a divider leading to the main area has already been completed. Decorative lights on either side of the road leading up to the Gurukul Ashram have also been installed. The additional funds will be used for peripheral beautification. Among them is the modernisation of the Kalyan Mandap, the development of the Balunkeswar, Radheshyam, Hanuman, Jagannath, and Chandrasekhar temples, and the beautification of the banks of the Brahmani river.
In addition, a hanging bridge will be constructed over the Brahmani River. Vedvyas Dham place is located on the confluence of the Koel, Sankha, and Saraswati rivers. This confluence has made the place the most sought-after destination for devotees from neighbouring states like Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh. Devotees from most of the districts in Odisha also visit the place. Many come here to complete the 11th-day rituals after death in a family. Besides, immersion of the last remains in this place is regarded as holy and pious. During the month of ‘Sharvan’ lakhs of devotees come here. During the Shiva Ratri festival, this place plays host to a grand fair, which is 165 years old.
