HM Shah launches Rs 1,445
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah on Saturday launched the Rs 1,445.97-crore Shri Ambabai (Mahalaxmi) Temple Development Plan in Maharashtra’s Kolhapur, aimed at preserving the historic shrine, enhancing facilities for devotees and boosting regional tourism.
The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Before the launch, Shah and his wife offered prayers and performed rituals at the Shri Karveer Nivasini Mahalaxmi Temple. The dignitaries later performed the traditional coconut-breaking ceremony and unveiled a plaque at ‘Ramacha Paar’ within the temple complex, formally marking the commencement of the project.
The development plan includes the construction of a new pradakshina (circumambulation) path, conservation of peripheral shrines and preservation of the main temple structure.
Recognised as one of India’s oldest and most prominent Shakti Peethas, the Shri Karveer Nivasini Mahalaxmi Temple has a history spanning over a millennium. Built in the Hemadpanthi architectural style, the temple attracts millions of devotees annually from across the country and abroad.
According to a government release, the Maharashtra Cabinet approved funding of Rs 1,445.97 crore for the project on May 6, 2025. The initiative is being implemented in three phases.
The Planning Department sanctioned Rs 143.90 crore for the first phase on August 28, 2025, focusing on structural conservation in accordance with archaeological guidelines. Restoration work worth Rs 32.96 crore is currently underway, along with a Rs 23.05-crore project covering electrification, CCTV surveillance and architectural lighting.
The project also envisages the restoration of 41 smaller temples surrounding the main shrine and the beautification of the traditional Nagar Pradakshina Marg. A total of 28,058 square metres of land has been identified for the development, while acquisition of 19,489 square metres of private land is being expedited by a high-level committee headed by the Additional Chief Secretary (Urban Development).
Upon completion, the temple complex will feature a mega queue complex (Darshan Mandap), an Annachhatra (community kitchen), a multipurpose hall, an amphitheatre, an information centre and a Vedic school. The plan also includes modern utility facilities, shoe storage areas, organised marketplaces, expanded parking infrastructure, dedicated administrative offices, a police station, security checkpoints and a first-aid medical centre.
The comprehensive project aims to improve the pilgrimage experience while ensuring the preservation of the temple’s heritage and architectural integrity.
(With inputs from IANS)
