Mahakaleshwar Corridor

Mahakaleshwar Corridor

News: The first phase of the Mahakaleshwar Corridor, which cost Rs 350 crore, is complete now and all set for inauguration.

About:
• Mahakal Maharaj Mandir Parisar Vistar Yojna is a plan for the expansion, beautification, and decongestion of the Mahakaleshwar temple and its adjoining area in Ujjain district.
• The project is expected to increase annual footfall in the city from the current 1.50 crore to nearly three crore.

Details about Phase 1:
• One of crucial aspect of phase I is the visitor plaza which houses 2 entrances. The Nandi Dwaar and Pinaki Dwaar. The visitor plaza can hold up to 20,000 pilgrims at a time.
• A circulation plan to reduce congestion has also been developed, keeping in mind the entry of visitors into the city and their movement up to the temple.
• A 900-metre pedestrian corridor has been constructed, connecting the plaza to the Mahakal temple, dotted with 108 murals and 93 statues depicting stories related to Lord Shiva, such as Shiv Vivah, TripurasurVadh, Shiv Puran, and Shiv TandavSwaroop.

Details about Phase 2:
• Phase II involves development of adjoining places such as Maharajwada, Mahal Gate, Hari Phatak Bridge, Ramghat façade, and BegamBagh Road.
• The second phase is being developed with funding from AgenceFrancaise de Development (AFD) under the City Investments to Innovate Integrate and Sustainable (CITIIS) programme.

Mahakaleshwar Temple:
• As per Hindu mythology, the temple was constructed by Lord Brahma and is presently located alongside the holy river Kshipra.
• Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga in Ujjain is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas considered the most sacred abodes of Shiva.
• The temple’s Mahakal Lingam is believed to be Swayambhu (self-manifested) and unlike any other jyotirlingas in the country, the idol of Mahakaleshwar faces south.
• The shrine is revered as one the 18 MahaShakti Peeth in India.
• The temple in its present form was built by the Maratha general Ranoji Shinde in 1734 CE.