Khordha, May 3: In a significant move to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Odisha, the state government has launched a Rs 7 crore project to transform Jayadev Pitha in Kenduli, the birthplace of iconic Sanskrit poet Jayadeva, into an international spiritual and cultural destination.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi laid the foundation stone for the ambitious development on Wednesday, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the region’s cultural legacy. Nestled along the scenic banks of the Prachi River in Khordha district, the site is set to undergo a major facelift aimed at attracting global attention.
As part of the redevelopment, the project will introduce expansive flower gardens, ten serene lotus ponds, a Dasavatar-themed plaza, and a range of other cultural and spiritual attractions. The vision is to recreate the ambience of Jayadeva’s time, offering visitors an immersive experience rooted in Odisha’s rich tradition.
In addition to spiritual spaces, the plan includes the creation of green landscapes, artisan craft stalls, and food courts to cater to both pilgrims and tourists. These enhancements are expected to make Jayadev Pitha not only a place of worship and reflection but also a vibrant cultural and tourism hub.
Speaking at the event, CM Majhi highlighted the enduring relevance of Jayadeva’s Geeta Govinda, a literary masterpiece that remains central to Odisha’s cultural and spiritual identity. “This site is a symbol of our spiritual heritage, and this project will ensure that the legacy of Jayadeva continues to inspire generations to come,” the Chief Minister stated.
The redevelopment project will be supervised by Bhubaneswar MP Aparajita Sarangi and carried out in close coordination with the Culture and Tourism departments to ensure thoughtful and authentic execution.
The initiative is widely seen as a step toward not just infrastructure development, but a broader cultural renaissance that will spotlight Odisha’s contribution to India’s spiritual and literary heritage.
