Gundicha Temple gets a facelift ahead of Rath Yatra
Bhubaneswar: Gundicha Temple, where the deities of Jagannath temple were born, is being prepared for a visual transformation through enhancement work before Rath Yatra on June 27.
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"The beautification work includes stone-cladding of the outer boundary wall, landscaping and illumination arrangements to welcome the deities at their place of birth during Rath Yatra. The aesthetic transformation will give a visual delight to the deities and devotees," chief administrator of Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA), Arabinda Kumar Padhee told TOI.
The temple's exterior boundary wall, previously constructed of bricks, has received fresh plastering and Khondalite stone cladding, showcasing Odisha's architectural heritage.
A protective fence is being installed around the wall to maintain its sanctity and restrict public access. Ornamental trees are being planted near the shrine as part of landscaping effort.
"The initial phase involves stone cladding of the shrine's front wall, with plans to extend the treatment to the side and rear walls in subsequent phases after Rath Yatra," Padhee said.
A new room has been built near the temple entrance for administrative purposes, complementing the existing information centre.
An LED display will be installed outside to provide devotees with information about rituals at the Jagannath temple, located about 3 km away on the Grand Road.
"Post-Rath Yatra, the Odisha Bridge & Construction Corporation Limited will undertake comprehensive renovation inside Gundicha Temple, including improvements of the kitchen and Nata Mandap. Murals highlighting Jagannath culture will be crafted on walls inside the shrine," Padhee said.
Gundicha Temple, recognised as the deities' garden home due to its abundant trees, remains vacant except during Rath Yatra when the deities stay in it.
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