Is a Dream Come True for Every Bihari? Leaders Excited as HM Shah to Lay Foundation Stone of Maa Sita Temple in Sitamarhi

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Foundation stone for Maa Sita Temple laid by Amit Shah.
- Temple site in Punaura Dham, believed to be Sita's birthplace.
- Project budget of Rs 882 crore approved for development.
- Expected to enhance religious tourism in Bihar.
- Completion anticipated within 11 months.
Patna, Aug 8 (NationPress) The spiritual and cultural landscape of Bihar is on the brink of a monumental change as Union Home Minister Amit Shah prepares to lay the foundation stone for the Maa Sita Temple at Punaura Dham in Sitamarhi. Leaders from various political factions, including the BJP and JD(U), have lauded this initiative as the realization of a long-held aspiration for every Bihari, marking a proud chapter in the state's history.
Situated in Punaura Dham, which is revered as the mythological birthplace of goddess Sita, the temple is set to be constructed similarly to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. It is anticipated to emerge as a significant center for religious tourism in eastern India.
Union Minister and LJP (Ram Vilas) leader, Chirag Paswan, expressed his heartfelt gratitude and pride, stating, “For a long time, this has been the aspiration of every Bihari. Through our ‘Bihar First, Bihari First’ initiative and various platforms, we dedicated ourselves to making this dream come true. I have always envisioned a magnificent Maa Sita temple in Bihar, akin to the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya. I am thrilled that this journey has officially begun. It is a moment of profound respect for the faith of the people.”
Paswan further highlighted the project's potential for economic growth: “Bihar is brimming with opportunities for religious tourism. Just as Ayodhya saw an economic surge after the Ram Mandir, I firmly believe Sitamarhi will experience a similar metamorphosis. I thank the central government for this pivotal step.”
In an interview with IANS, senior BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain mirrored these sentiments, deeming it a moment of collective pride.
“This is a proud moment for every Bihari. The establishment of a grand Sita temple in Bihar transcends mere religious significance — it signifies a revival of our spiritual heritage.”
Bihar's Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Kumar Sinha referred to the occasion as a proud moment for the residents of Bihar, stating, “Amit Shah laying the foundation stone today represents a proud moment for all people of Bihar. It is a landmark event that will be cherished for generations.”
BJP leader Mangal Pandey added, “Today, Amit Shah will inaugurate the temple of Maa Sita in Sitamarhi. This is a significant achievement. Pilgrims from across India will be attracted to this spiritual site, providing a substantial boost to Bihar’s tourism.”
JD(U) leader Vijay Kumar Choudhary characterized the day as historic.
“Just as Ayodhya holds importance due to Lord Ram, Sitamarhi and Punaura Dham are esteemed for their association with Mata Sita. The government has sanctioned a development plan of Rs 882 crore, set to transform this area into a major religious hub. Alongside the temple, the whole region will be developed to foster tourism and infrastructure. The people of Bihar are grateful to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for his vision.”
On August 7, Union Home Minister Amit Shah took to social media platform X, stating: “Tomorrow is a day of immense fortune and joy for the entire nation and especially for Mithila, as the foundation stone will be laid for the extensive development plan of the holy ‘Punauradham Temple’ at the birthplace of Mother Sita in Sitamarhi, Bihar. To improve connectivity for devotees, PM Shri @narendramodi ji has also approved the Sitamarhi-Delhi Amrit Bharat train, which will be inaugurated tomorrow.”
The event is expected to see participation from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, senior ministers, and spiritual leaders from across India. The ceremony will be conducted amidst Vedic chants and rituals, marking the onset of what many are calling a “spiritual renaissance” for Bihar.
The 67-acre temple complex is projected to be completed within 11 months. The Bihar Cabinet, on July 1, approved Rs 882.87 crore for the integrated development of the site. Out of this, Rs 137 crore is earmarked for the restoration and enhancement of the old temple and premises, Rs 728 crore for tourism-related infrastructure, and Rs 16 crore for a 10-year maintenance plan. The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation will oversee the project.