Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Friday performed Bhoomi Pujan for the construction of Upasana Pitha and Mahima Gadi Sunya Mandap, and transformation of the famous Mahima Pitha at Joranda in Dhenkanal district.
The State Government will also undertake the beautification of the periphery of the Mahima Gadi.
Speaking at a function at Joranda, the Chief Minister said that Odisha is the land of God and a sacred land. The Mahima cult has sanctified Joranda land, giving it a special place on the spiritual map of India.
“I am very happy to visit such a holy land and get an opportunity to meet you”, the CM said.
Mahima cult believes in a simple life, equality and welfare of the world by treating the whole world as one family. The message of Bhima Bhoi, the great saint of Mahima cult, is an inspiration for all of us, Naveen said.
The Mahima cult has taught us sacrifices for the welfare of the world. The State government has sanctioned Rs 112 crore for the development of the Mahima Gadi, the CM said.
The work will be started soon and will be completed within three years. The Chief Minister sought everyone’s cooperation to make Joranda a prime seat on the spiritual tourism map of Odisha and India. He also extended best wishes for the upcoming Magha Mela and Agni Purnima.
Attending the programme, State Minister of Steel and Mines Prafulla Kumar Mallick said the Chief Minister has shown his sincerity towards Mahima cult by providing all support for the propagation and development of this faith.
The 5T and Nabin Odisha Chairman V.K Pandian said that despite the protest by many, the Chief Minister has decided to develop this pitha. The Mahima cult, which spread the message of simplicity, transparency, service and selflessness, needs to be taken forward.
He said that steps have been taken for the development of this famous pitha and its surroundings, Pandian said.
Our Chief Minister does not work for credit, but with the spirit of service. The Chief Minister has placed the development of Mahima Gadi in his heart. The development of all other Mahima Pithas across Odisha will also be done, he added.
Dhenkanal MP Mahesh Kumar Sahu, MLA Sudhir Kumar Samal, Parjang MLA Dr. Nrusingh Charan Sahoo, Hindol MLA Simarani Nayak, ZP President Archana Puhan attended the program.