MUMBAI: In a significant move to preserve Maharashtra’s cultural and religious heritage, the state government has approved development projects worth Rs 2,954 crore for the restoration and renovation of historic temples and memorials. This initiative was formally announced during a cabinet meeting held at Ahilyanagar on Wednesday ahead of the 300th birth anniversary of 18th-century warrior queen Ahilyadevi Holkar. The renovation work is expected to be completed over the next three years.
The projects cover a wide range of religious and historical sites across the state, including Chaundi village (Ahilyanagar), Tuljapur, Kolhapur, Trimbakeshwar, Mahurgad, and the renowned Ashtavinayak temple circuit.
One of the key announcements includes the approval of a Rs 2,954 crore development plan for Shri Kshetra Jotiba Temple in Kolhapur. According to an X (formerly Twitter) post by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, the Planning Department granted administrative approval for this extensive project on May 28. The Kolhapur District Collector has been assigned responsibility for implementing and monitoring the project.
This initiative aligns with the state’s broader objective to enhance pilgrim amenities, promote religious tourism, and protect Maharashtra’s historical identity. Other major projects approved include a Rs 681.3 crore plan for Ahilyadevi Holkar’s memorial in Chaundi and large-scale developments at Tuljabhavani Temple (Rs 1,865 crore), Ashtavinayak temples (Rs 147.8 crore), Trimbakeshwar Temple (Rs 275 crore), Mahalaxmi Mandir (Rs 1,445 crore), and Mahurgad (Rs 829 crore).
While four of the seven temple development plans have received administrative approval, the government has also issued specific directives to ensure the original architectural styles of the temples are preserved during the renovation process.
The large-scale investment comes despite the state's financial constraints and highlights the government’s emphasis on preserving Maharashtra’s spiritual legacy for future generations.
