Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah, inaugurated the Rs 1,445.97 crore Shri Ambabai (Mahalaxmi) Temple Development Plan in Kolhapur. This initiative focuses on temple preservation, heritage conservation, enhancing facilities for devotees, and promoting regional tourism. The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The development works encompass the creation of a new circumambulation path, restoration of peripheral deity shrines, and maintenance of the main temple structure. The Shri Karveer Nivasini Mahalaxmi Temple, known as one of India’s ancient and significant Shakti Peethas, is over a thousand years old. The comprehensive plan aims to enhance visitor experiences while safeguarding the temple’s architectural integrity.
The project, approved by the Maharashtra Cabinet on May 6, 2025, is divided into three phases. The initial phase, funded with Rs 143.90 crore, focuses on structural conservation following strict archaeological guidelines. Currently, structural restoration worth Rs 32.96 crore is in progress, along with a project costing Rs 23.05 crore for advanced electrification, CCTV installation, and aesthetic lighting.
The development plan includes the restoration of 41 smaller temples surrounding the main temple and beautification of the traditional circumambulation route in the city. To support this upgrade, 28,058 square meters of land have been assessed, with the acquisition process for 19,489 square meters of private land expedited under a high-level committee led by the Additional Chief Secretary (Urban Development).
Upon completion, the temple complex will offer modern facilities such as a mega-queue complex, community kitchen, multi-purpose hall, amphitheater, information center, Vedic school, utility blocks, marketplaces, parking facilities, administrative offices, police station, security checkpoints, and a medical center.
