Master Plan for Maa Mangala Peetha Approved by the Chief Minister
Kakatpur: The master plan prepared by the government for the development of the revered shrine of Goddess Maa Mangala in Kakatpur of Puri district was approved this evening by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik. The news brought a wave of joy across the Kakatpur constituency. Maa Mangala is a symbol of faith and devotion for lakhs of devotees. Built in the 15th century, the shrine of Maa Mangala shares a deep connection with the Puri Shri Jagannath Temple and the Jagannath culture. During the Nabakalebara festival, the Daitapati servitors begin their sacred Daru (divine log) search from here following Maa’s divine command.
The famous Jhamu Yatra held in the month of Chaitra is a major festival dedicated to Maa Mangala. As part of the 5T initiative, a master plan has been drawn up for the development of this ancient Shakti Peetha. The plan includes laying of Khondalite stone in the temple premises, renovation of the temple’s kitchen and drainage system. Additionally, a Sevayat Bhavan (residential complex for temple servitors), Bhoga (offering) shops, facilities for tonsuring rituals on the banks of the Prachi river, and development of Chandan Ghat will be undertaken. Community toilets and other infrastructure will also be developed.
To make the shrine more attractive, a heritage gate will be constructed on the Konark side road, and the main entryway for devotees coming from Konark will be redeveloped with the addition of a ‘Maa Mangala Gate’ and a new main gate. Various initiatives will be taken for the convenience of visitors, including illumination, tree plantation, and development of parking areas. The Odisha Bridge Construction Corporation (OBCC) will complete all these works within 12 months.
On December 24th, 2024, 5T Secretary V. K. Pandian visited Kakatpur and discussed with district administration, temple authorities, and servitors of Maa Mangala about the kind of developmental work required to make the shrine more beautiful and organized.
Following the Chief Minister’s approval of the master plan today, a video conference was held with the temple servitors. The servitors, including Pavitra Mohan Dixit, Naresh Kumar Dixit, Tushar Ranjan Dixit, Pradeep Kumar Dixit, Raghunath Dixit, Himanshu Bhushan Dixit, Kamal Lochan Dixit, Pradeep Panda, Manas Kumar Dixit, BDO Tushar Jyotiranjan, and Temple Executive Officer expressed their gratitude and thanks to the Chief Minister and the 5T Secretary.
