Bihar Cabinet Approves Rs. 882.87 Cr for Sitamarhi Maa Janaki Temple Development

The Bihar government has sanctioned a comprehensive development project worth Rs. 882.87 crore for the transformation of Sitamarhi’s revered Maa Janaki Mandir, Punaura Dham, marking a significant milestone in the state’s heritage tourism initiatives. The Bihar cabinet temple plan, announced on Tuesday, encompasses the holistic development of Punaura Dham, recognized as the sacred birthplace of Maa Sita, the daughter of Raja Janak and wife to Lord Ram. This ambitious Sitamarhi temple development project aims to establish the site as a premier destination for spiritual tourism while preserving its religious significance.

The Bihar temple development Sitamarhi project has been structured into three distinct phases to ensure systematic implementation. Phase I (Rs. 137.34 crore), a comprehensive upgradation of the existing ancient temple structure at Punaura Dham, focusing on the restoration and enhancement of the original sanctum. Phase II (Rs. 728 crore), is the development of extensive tourism-related infrastructure, including visitor facilities, accommodation, and supporting amenities to accommodate the anticipated influx of pilgrims and tourists. Phase III (Rs. 16.62 crore), provision for maintenance and upkeep of the entire complex over a decade, ensuring sustainable operations and preservation of the structures.

Just like the Ayodhya Ram Temple, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s Sitamarhi Janaki Temple project unveiled detailed architectural plans on June 22, featuring a magnificent 151-foot-tall temple structure. The new design incorporates wide pedestrian walkways, extensive green landscaping, and modern amenities while maintaining the traditional architectural essence. The comprehensive development will be executed following the successful model of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra in Ayodhya, ensuring world-class standards for the Janaki Mandir infrastructure.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar expressed his commitment to the project through official communications, stating, “The foundation for the project will be laid in August. We are committed to completing a grand temple at Punauradham at the earliest.” He further emphasized the project’s significance, noting, “I am extremely delighted to inform you that the birthplace of mother Janaki, Punaura Dham, Sitamarhi, has received approval from the cabinet today for a comprehensive development plan, including the construction of a grand temple and other structures.”

Located approximately 5 kilometers from Sitamarhi town in northern Bihar, Maa Janaki Temple serves as a crucial component of the Ramayana circuit temple network. This strategic positioning connects Nepal’s Janakpur with the Ram Janmabhoomi site in Ayodhya, creating a seamless pilgrimage route for devotees. The state government is actively developing the Ram-Janaki Marg, a dedicated road connection between Ayodhya’s Ram Mandir and Maa Janaki Temple. Additionally, the Chief Minister has requested the establishment of a Vande Bharat train service between these two sacred cities to facilitate convenient transportation for pilgrims.

Punaura Dham's development extends beyond the main temple complex, encompassing several sites of immense religious importance linked to the Ramayana epic. According to Bihar tourism authorities, the area features a sacred lake believed to possess divine properties related to the pregnancy of Maa Sita, along with Panth Pakar, a site associated with Maa Sita’s marriage ceremonies.

The Chief Minister highlighted the project’s broader impact, declaring, “The construction of the temple at Punauradham is a matter of pride for the people of the country, especially for the people of Bihar.” This monumental investment in Sitamarhi heritage tourism is expected to significantly boost the region’s economy while preserving its rich cultural legacy. The project represents a crucial step in promoting spiritual tourism in Bihar, creating employment opportunities, and fostering economic development in the region while maintaining the sanctity and religious significance of this ancient site. The foundation stone ceremony is scheduled for August, marking the commencement of this transformative journey for one of the most revered pilgrimage sites for Hindus.