Three-Day Bhumi Pujan Ceremony of Ekamra Prakalp to Showcase Rich Cultural Heritage of Ekamra Kshetra

Bhubaneswar: The Bhumi Pujan ceremony for EKAMRA Prakalp, a three-day celebration, scheduled from June 26th to 28th, promises to be a momentous occasion showcasing the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Ekamra Kshetra.

The Bhumi Pujan will commence on the evening of June 26th at 7:30 pm with Yagna rituals.

This 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 foundation stone laying ceremony, slated for June 28h morning, 2023, will be 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, emphasizing 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 Lingaraja Temple, Ananta Basudeva,

Mukteswar Temple, Bindu Sagar, and other smaller temples will be adorned with soft illuminations, heightening their ethereal beauty. 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 from June 26th to June 28th. There will be an exhibition featuring a project model and information displays which will further enlighten visitors about the remarkable endeavors taking place within Ekamra Kshetra.

Enchanting Bhajan performance on the evening of June 27th & 28th 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 attendees.

The Ekamra Prakalp, also known as the Ekamra Kshetra Amenities and Monuments Revival Action plan, was launched by the Government of Odisha 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-l 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. 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 developed to cater to emergency services. To facilitate easy access to ritual spaces and Ekarnra 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 finalized, with works scheduled to commence soon.