Kurukshetra to get mythological makeover

To enhance the experience of tourists and devotees visiting Kurukshetra, 39 major chowks in the city will be renovated and beautified with themes inspired by the Mahabharata.

Plans are underway to install statues of iconic characters from the epic, along with representations of the Shankha, Chakra and other symbolic artworks. Additionally, two grand entry gates modelled on the Mahabharata will be constructed at the city’s main entry points and the iconic Gita Dwar at Pipli is also set for renovation.

Municipal Commissioner Satinder Siwach stated, “Two new gates will be constructed at KDB Road and Umri Chowk, while the existing Gita Dwar at Pipli Chowk will be renovated. A detailed project report (DPR) is expected to be prepared within 10 days. We also plan to paint Mahabharata-themed murals on the walls of city bridges to create a captivating environment for visitors. An amount of Rs 11.25 crore has already been sanctioned for the entry gates and beautification of the KDB Road. A 5-km stretch of the road will be developed as a smart road, with three additional 2-km stretches identified for similar development.”

Madan Mohan Chhabra, Chairman of the 48-Kos Tirtha Monitoring Committee, said, “The proposal to renovate Gita Dwar and build new Mahabharata-themed entry gates was recently discussed at a Kurukshetra Development Board meeting. Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini directed officials to create an immersive experience so that visitors feel the spiritual and cultural essence of Kurukshetra the moment they arrive.”Chhabra further added, “These two gates are part of a larger vision to build 18 gates, each representing one of the 18 chapters of the Bhagavad Gita. With the existing Gita Dwar and Surya Dwar already in place, the remaining gates will be constructed in phases, each dedicated to a distinct theme from the Mahabharata and the Gita.” Former Minister of State Subhash Sudha, who recently held discussions with MC officials, confirmed that an architect has been appointed for the gate construction on Umri and KDB roads, modelled after the Pipli Gita Dwar. Plans also include building an auditorium on HSVP land and an e-library in the city. DPRs for all the projects are being prepared and work will start after administrative approvals are granted.

Haryana Tribune