By Firstdespatch Desk Nov 05, 2024
Agartala, Nov 5 (FD) The Tripura Sundari Temple, a revered 500-year-old site, established by the king Dhanya Manikya is getting a face lift and is set to welcome devotees again in early February next year, according to Tripura’s tourism minister, Sushanta Chowdhury.
This ancient temple has, which is also one of the 51 shaktipeeths globally, been under renovation for the last five years, a project aimed at enhancing tourism in the region. To further appeal to international visitors, the Tripura government has dedicated 14.22 acres of land to create replicas of all 51 Shaktipeeths surrounding the temple, making it a unique and accessible attraction for pilgrims and travelers worldwide.
The Centre has approved significant funding through the PRASAD scheme, with the state also contributing to ensure the project’s completion. Initially, the Centre allocated Rs 37 crore for the renovation and beautification of the temple, complemented by an additional Rs 7 crore from the state government, advancing this transformative initiative.
The recent unrest in Bangladesh has impacted tourist numbers, prompting discussions to explore strategies for boosting visitor turnout, according to Chowdhury. Recognizing that the 51 Shaktipeeth temples are spread across Asia and difficult for devotees to visit in a single lifetime, the state government proposed building replicas of each around the Tripura Sundari Temple.
In Hindu mythology, these Shaktipeeths hold immense significance, with 38 located in India, six in Bangladesh, three in Nepal, two in Pakistan, and one each in Tibet and Sri Lanka. Given the logistical challenges of visiting all 51 sacred sites, the state decided to create precise replicas, making it easier for devotees to honor them in one place, Chowdhury explained. FD JK