THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Sitamarhi, August 8: A new chapter was added to the religious and cultural history of Bihar today, as Union Home Minister Amit Shah laid the foundation stone for the Mata Sita Temple at Punaura Dham in Sitamarhi.
The Bhoomi Pujan ceremony was conducted with Vedic chants and rituals in the presence of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, Deputy CM Samrat Choudhary, Vijay Kumar Sinha, and several senior ministers of the Bihar government.
Punaura Dham, believed to be the birthplace of Goddess Sita in Hindu tradition, has long been a significant pilgrimage site. It is now being developed into an international-level religious tourism destination.
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Modern Temple Complex to Span 67 Acres
Construction of the temple complex has already begun on a war footing, with the goal of completing the work within 42 weeks, or approximately 11 months.
The grand temple complex will be spread over 67 acres. The main temple will stand at a height of 151 feet. The complex will also include a Yagya Mandap, Sita Museum, modern auditorium, cafeteria, dharmashala, Sita Vatika, Lav-Kush Vatika, children’s play area, parking facility, parikrama path, and interactive exhibition spaces.
Total Project Cost ₹882.87 Crore
The total cost of this landmark project is estimated at ₹882.87 crore, with ₹137.34 crore allocated for the construction of the main temple structure.
The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation is overseeing the project. Land acquisition is nearly complete, and the tender process is progressing rapidly.
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Inauguration Likely During Sawan Next Year
According to the Tourism Department, the temple construction is expected to be completed within the set deadline. The inauguration is likely to take place in the Sawan month of next year.
This project is not only expected to elevate religious tourism in the region but also open up new avenues for employment and economic growth for local communities.
The beautification of the existing Janaki Kund in the temple complex is also part of the project. The initiative aims to provide world-class facilities to pilgrims and is seen as a significant step toward giving Bihar’s religious and cultural heritage a global platform.
