THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
BHUBANESWAR,
SEPTEMBER 30, 2026
The historic Maa
Kichakeswari Temple complex at Khiching in Mayurbhanj is set for a major
transformation, with the Centre sanctioning ₹44.91 crore for its comprehensive development and
modernisation under the PRASHAD scheme.
The announcement was
made by the Union Minister for Culture and Tourism through his official social
media handle. Describing the sanction as a milestone in strengthening
pilgrimage tourism in Odisha, the Minister said the project would seek to
provide world-class facilities at the sacred site while preserving the State’s
rich spiritual and cultural heritage.
Sanctioned under the
Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive (PRASHAD) of
the Ministry of Tourism, the project envisages an extensive upgrade of
infrastructure and visitor amenities at the temple complex. The proposed
interventions are aimed at improving facilities for pilgrims and tourists,
streamlining movement within the premises and addressing existing logistical
and civic infrastructure gaps.
The emphasis,
however, is expected to remain on preserving the distinctive character of the
heritage site. Khiching, the ancient capital of the Bhanja rulers, is renowned
for its striking black chlorite stone architecture and archaeological
significance. Any modern intervention at the temple complex will therefore have
to be carefully integrated with its religious, architectural and cultural
setting.
The proposed investment is also expected to give a fresh impetus to heritage and pilgrimage tourism in Mayurbhanj. Improved visitor facilities and supporting infrastructure could make Khiching more accessible to pilgrims as well as travellers interested in Odisha’s architectural and cultural history.
Beyond the temple precinct, the project is likely to have an economic impact on the surrounding communities. A rise in tourist footfall could create opportunities for local vendors, artisans, transport operators and hospitality providers, while strengthening the role of Khiching as an important cultural destination in northern Odisha.
