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Time of India
2 days ago
- General
- Time of India
Watchtower, museum to boost Prakash Punj's appeal
Patna: A watchtower will be developed within the Prakash Punj premises, the state-of-the-art facility near 'Guru ka Bagh' in Patna Sahib, over the next three months. The ghat on the bank of the pond, which spans one and a half acres, will also undergo beautification. The work at the 10-acre Prakash Punj Park is nearing completion and is set to emerge as a major tourist attraction, especially for Sikh pilgrims visiting the holy city. The comprehensive renovation project, estimated at around Rs 9.49 crore, includes a restored pond with a circumambulatory path, solar-powered lighting and modern sanitation facilities. The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) is executing the project with all works scheduled for completion by Aug. A senior BSTDC official said, "The beautification works at Prakash Punj are almost complete. Work is in progress on the top floor of the watchtower, which will feature a lift. Visitors will be able to view the grand sword installation atop Prakash Punj from the watchtower." The park's design pays tribute to Sikh heritage with four grand entrance gates named after Guru Gobind Singh's sons – Ajit Singh, Jujhar Singh, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch xu hướng AUD/USD? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo Five circular structures represent key Sikh pilgrimage centres – Hemkund Sahib, Paonta Sahib, Nanded Sahib, Keshgarh Sahib and Patna Sahib. A major highlight of the park is a state-of-the-art museum that portrays the life and teachings of Guru Gobind Singh through multimedia displays, artefacts and historical exhibits. Circular walls within the premises feature miniature models of gurudwaras, offering visitors a glimpse of Sikh architectural traditions. Landscaping and eco-friendly features such as solar lighting and water conservation systems have been incorporated. "This project represents our commitment to preserving and showcasing Bihar's rich religious and cultural heritage," said a senior tourism official. "It will serve both as a tourist attraction and an educational centre on Sikh history," he added.


Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
Facelift of Maner Sharif dargah nears completion
Patna: Beautification work at Maner Sharif Dargah in Patna district is progressing rapidly, with 70% of the construction of two thematic entrance gates already completed. These gates are being designed with traditional motifs and architectural elements that reflect the cultural heritage of the site. The tourism department is focusing on landscape development, installation of proper lighting systems, and creation of amenities for visitors. Pathways are being renovated with traditional stonework to maintain the authentic character of the site. Public relations officer (PRO) of the tourism department, Ravishankar Upadhyay, said: "The department has made significant progress in the beautification work of the historic Maner Sharif Dargah, one of the country's oldest centres of Islamic culture. The project would cost Rs 99.98 lakh." He said two thematic gates have been completed, while about 70% work has been done on the third one. The architectural design aims to blend traditional Islamic architecture with modern aesthetics, he said. The shrine, dating back to the 11th century, houses the tomb of the renowned Sufi saint Hazrat Makhdoom Yahya Maneri, who passed away in 1291 CE. The site has historically served as a spiritual centre for Sufi saints across the country, who gather here for religious discourse and propagation of Sufi teachings. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Pennsylvania Important Update For Vehicles Driven Less Than 50 Miles A Day Smart Lifestyle Trends Learn More Undo "Under the supervision of Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC), the beautification project will transform the visitors' experience at Maner Sharif. The new entrance gates will serve as an attractive landmark while preserving the spiritual essence of this historic site," Upadhyay added. With the completion of this beautification project, officials expect a substantial increase in tourists' footfall. According to an official source, the BSTDC is also planning further beautification of the site with the development of a cafeteria, a tourist information centre, installation of a water fountain on the campus, benches, LED lights, and other basic amenities for the tourists.


Time of India
24-05-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Buddhist meditation & experience centre to come up at Bodh Gaya
Patna: A Buddhist meditation and experience centre, under the Centre's Swadesh Darshan Scheme 2.0, would be constructed at the cost of Rs 165.44 crore in Bodh Gaya . The centre, approved and funded by the ministry of tourism, will provide a unique platform for tourists to experience the rich heritage and philosophy of Buddhism. The Bihar State Tourism Development Corporation (BSTDC) will be the nodal agency for the execution of this project. Special secretary-cum-tourism director Udayan Mishra said, "In compliance with the announcement made in the Union Budget 2024-25 for the comprehensive development of Gaya and Bodh Gaya, a detailed project report was sought for the Buddhist meditation and experience centre. After submission of the report to the ministry, a nod was given for the development of the centre." On April 2, 2025, technical approval for the project was received from the chief engineer, BSTDC. Subsequently, administrative approval was granted on May 22. Mishra said Bodh Gaya is an important tourist destination, which attracts a large number of tourists. To further enhance the facilities at the place, a Buddhist meditation and experience centre would be constructed, which will increase the footfall of tourists and also generate revenue for the govt. Additionally, it will create employment and business opportunities for local people. "Approval for the construction of the centre was granted by the cabinet on May 16. The BSTDC is the executing agency for this important project," the special secretary added. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Brother's Day wishes , messages and quotes !