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- The Odisha government is expected to soon lay the foundation stone of the Puri heritage corridor, which is being developed at a cost of Rs 800 crore.
What is the Puri Heritage Corridor Project?
- Conceived in 2016, the Puri Heritage Corridor Project was unveiled in December 2019 to transform the holy town of Puri into an international place of heritage.
- Heritage corridor to be divided into nine zones.
- The project includes redeveloping major portions of the holy town and in the vicinity of the Jagannath temple for visitors and tourists.
- The project will include Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) building redevelopment, a 600-capacity Srimandir reception centre, Jagannath cultural centre including Raghunandan library.
Significance
- Odia sentiments: It will touch upon the spiritual side of the citizens invoking the ‘odia sentiments’.
- The greatest identity of the Odia community is Lord Jagannath. He is the symbol of Odia esteem and pride.
- Prayer of millions of devotees: Visiting the Jagannath Temple once in a lifetime and getting a glimpse of the Lord is the only prayer of millions of devotees.
- Fine architecture: It is a marvel in itself as its fine architecture, sculptures and history covers the history of the State for centuries.
- Political motive: The constant push towards temple beautification and infrastructural development also points at a strategy to face the increasing presence of the BJP in the state which focuses on religious and cultural spheres.
- Enlist shrine in UNESCO World Heritage list: The Puri Vikash Parishad has urged UNESCO to enlist the 12th century shrine in its World Heritage list as it fulfils all parameters.
- The 65-metre high shrine is a true reflection of Kalinga art, sculpture and culture and is one of the four dhamas (holy places) of Hindu religion.
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Source: IE
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