Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today laid the foundation stone for the ambitious project Ekamra Kshetra revival project in Old Town area of Bhubaneswar.
CM Naveen Patnaik, accompanied by other ministers and dignitaries, arrived at Singhadwara of Lord Lingaraj Temple to inaugurate the Ekamra Bhumi Pujan ceremony.
He then proceeded to the Foundation Stone laying site, where he participated in the Shilanyas ritual and Yagna ceremonies.
The Odisha CM then officially laid the foundation stone for the EKAMRA Prakalpa project and felicitated 14 people who contributed land for the project cementing the government’s dedication to the preservation and revival of Bhubaneswar’s ancient heritage.
 Representatives of Brahmana Nijog, Badu Nijog and Samartha Nijog presented a photo of Damodar Vesa of Lord Lingaraj to the Chief Minister.
Among others Minister Prafulla Kumar Mallik, Minister Ashok Chandra Panda, 5T Secretary V K Pandian were also present on stage.
The EKAMRA Prakalp, also known as the Ekamra Kshetra Amenities and Monuments Revival Action plan, is an initiative launched by the Government of Odisha in 2019, spanning an area of 80 acres around Shree Lingaraj Temple.
During the three-day celebration, from June 26th to 28th, visitors and devotees had the opportunity to be
immersed in the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Ekamra Kshetra. The Lingaraj Temple,
AnantaBasudeva, Mukteswar Temple, Bindu Sagar, and other smaller temples were adorned with soft
illuminations, enhancing their ethereal beauty. The sanctity of the occasion was heightened through
traditional Yajna rituals, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.
In addition to the religious ceremonies, attendees had the opportunity to witness captivating sky
projections, light and sound shows, dance performances and an exhibition featuring a project model and
informative displays. These activities showcased the remarkable endeavors taking place within Ekamra
Kshetra, enlightening visitors about the preservation and revival of Bhubaneswar’s architectural treasures.
The Ekamra Prakalp initiative exemplified the government’s steadfast commitment to preserving and
reviving Bhubaneswar’s ancient heritage. With the foundation stone laid, the project would soon
commence its Phase-I development, encompassing the restoration of Ekamra Kshetra’s architectural and
archaeological heritage, improved vehicular movement, shaded walkways, enhanced pedestrian flow,
relocated parking facilities and the creation of interconnected landscaped open spaces. The project sought
to provide a harmonious blend of modern amenities and the preservation of cultural heritage, ensuring a
transformative experience for visitors and devotees alike.
