The North News
Patiala, October 30
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) National Convener Arvind Kejriwal on Thursday launched development projects worth ₹75 crore to restore and enhance the historic Sri Kali Mata temple in Patiala.
Speaking at the event, Kejriwal said it was a privilege for the state government to undertake projects of such immense cultural and public importance. He criticised previous state administrations for neglecting the upkeep of the revered site. “It is by the blessings of Mata Rani that this government has received the opportunity to carry out this work, which will be completed within a year,” Kejriwal said.
The Sri Kali Mata Mandir, one of northern India’s most sacred temples, symbolises Punjab’s rich spiritual and royal legacy. Apart from the main shrine dedicated to Goddess Kali, the complex also houses the ancient temple of Shri Raj Rajeshwari Ji — another form of the goddess Shakti. Together, these sanctums form a spiritually significant and architecturally unique complex blending heritage with modern facilities.
Kejriwal said the temple attracts about 10,000 visitors daily, 40,000 on Saturdays, and nearly one lakh devotees during the Navratri festival. To support this large footfall, the government has approved projects worth ₹73.52 crore to improve infrastructure and facilities.
Among the works announced, ₹1.15 crore will be spent to draw clean water from the Bhakra Canal to the temple pond. The sewage and drainage system is being upgraded at a cost of ₹49.06 lakh, while an Aam Aadmi Clinic costing ₹25 lakh will provide medical care for devotees and local residents.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced a ₹6.78 crore light and sound show to enhance the temple’s spiritual and visual appeal, similar to arrangements at major pilgrimage sites. A lift is also being installed in the newly constructed building for ₹15.11 lakh, while new passageways, boundary walls, and entry gates are under development to improve accessibility and safety.
Mann said the temple pond will be fully renovated, with desilting, waterproofing, and stonework to preserve its sanctity and heritage design. A rear gate will be reopened for easier access during heavy pilgrim traffic, and all entrances will be redesigned in harmony with traditional architecture.
To ensure smooth movement during large gatherings, a queue management system and signboards will be introduced. A token-based system for distributing prasad — similar to that used at the Vaishno Devi Temple — will help prevent overcrowding. The Sangat Hall will be upgraded into an air-conditioned space to provide comfort for elderly devotees, families, and persons with disabilities.
A new hall for visiting pilgrims and parking space for 300 vehicles have also been completed. Mann said the government was “fully committed to developing this divine centre of faith into an architectural marvel” and would “leave no stone unturned to preserve the state’s cultural and spiritual heritage.”
The event was attended by Rajya Sabha MP Rajinder Gupta, Punjab Cabinet Minister Dr. Balbir Singh, and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia.
