In January, Odisha’s proposed unveiling of project around Puri Jaganath Temple to be as grandeur as of Ayodhya 

Experience religious enthusiasm in Odisha with the grand inauguration of Shree Mandira Parikrama Project (SMPP) on Jan 17 with 857 temples invited.

At a time when massive buzz surrounds the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, with its highly anticipated grand inauguration set for January 22, an uncannily similar fervour of religious enthusiasm may be witnessed in Odisha around the same period.

Project Puri: Odisha government’s ‘project of the century’ to renovate Lord Jagannath’s abode 

The Shree Mandira Parikrama Project (SMPP), dubbed as the developments around Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri as a once-in-a-century renovation, is poised to be unveiled on January 17 in a such a manner that have few parallel in the State.

Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), which administers affairs of the 12th century temple, is sending invitations to 857 temples in Odisha and 180 major temples in other States. Besides, Hindu religious troupes are slated to chant hymns and dance rhythmically amidst beating of drums round the clock.

Being developed at an investment of Rs 943 crore, the Shree Mandira Parikrama Project (SMPP) abuts Meghanada Pacheri (grand boundary around Jagannath Temple) is basically the security zone plan. It is broadly divided into nine zones on the northern, southern, and western side. 

The SMPP includes a 7-metre green buffer zone and a 10-metre pedestrian-only Antar (inner) Pradakshina that will be used for parikrama (clockwise circumambulation) of temple. The eight-meter outer circumambulation path would be covered by trees on either side. There will be a 10-meter public convenience zone.

Early on Saturday, V. K. Pandian, Chairman of 5T initiative, inspected progress on landscaping works, Mutt restoration, queue management system, two-wheeler parking areas, garbage chutes and façade painting.