MP: Shri Khedapati Hanuman Lok Corridor to Become a New Identity of Bhopal; What Will Be Special, Minister Vishwas Sarang Tells
Vishwas Sarang, the Minister for Cooperatives, Sports, and Youth Welfare, conducted a detailed inspection of the ongoing construction work for the Shri Khedapati Hanuman Lok Corridor, situated within the premises of the Shri Khedapati Hanuman Temple—one of the oldest and most revered centers of faith in the state capital, Bhopal.
During the visit, while reviewing the progress of the construction activities, he directed officials to ensure that the corridor's construction is completed in a phased manner, within the stipulated timeframe, and to the highest quality standards, so that devotees may soon have access to improved and modern amenities.
Faith and Heritage to Receive a Grand Transformation
Minister Sarang stated that the Shri Khedapati Hanuman Temple, located in Chhola, serves as a key hub for Bhopal's religious, cultural, and historical identity. For centuries, this temple has remained a focal point of faith for millions of devotees. With the spirit of "Heritage and Development Hand-in-Hand" (Virasat bhi aur Vikas bhi) guiding the initiative, the Shri Khedapati Hanuman Lok Corridor is being constructed to preserve this rich legacy. He added that this project would bestow a magnificent form upon Bhopal's cultural heritage and is poised to emerge as a major hub for religious tourism in the near future.
Minister Sarang directed officials from the Public Works Department and the Municipal Corporation to pay special attention to the convenience of devotees, local residents, and traders while carrying out the construction work. He explicitly stated that the project's implementation must ensure minimal displacement and that all necessary measures be taken to maintain an organized traffic flow.
Hanuman Lok will have these amenities
Minister Sarang informed that the Shri Khedapati Hanuman Lok Corridor—being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 100 crores—is being given a modern aesthetic modeled after the renowned 'Mahakal Lok' project. Spanning an area of approximately 21 acres, this project encompasses the beautification of the temple complex alongside the development of facilities for hassle-free darshan (worship) for devotees, a grand corridor, viewing galleries, infrastructure for public events, parking facilities, and various other modern amenities. Temple Complex to be Developed in the Nagara Style
Development works to incorporate ancient Nagara style of architecture
Minister Sarang stated that the development works within the temple complex are specifically incorporating the ancient Nagara style of architecture, utilizing white marble sourced from Rajasthan. A grand and dignified corridor, depicting glimpses of the Sundarkand, will be constructed within the complex to provide devotees with a profound spiritual experience.
Modern Amenities to be Developed at Dussehra Maidan
Sarang remarked that, while preserving the open character of the Dussehra Maidan, necessary infrastructure—including a spectator gallery, a spacious stage, a designated site for the Ravan Dahan (burning of Ravana's effigy), and facilities for public events—is being developed. Additionally, a 15-meter-wide concrete road is being constructed around the perimeter of the complex to facilitate the movement of devotees and the general public.
New Employment Opportunities to be Created
Sarang informed that, as part of the project, the construction of over 100 shops beneath the spectator gallery has been proposed. This initiative aims to boost trade in the region and generate new employment opportunities for local residents. These shops and other facilities will be equipped with modern amenities.
'Hanuman Lok' to Become a New Identity for Bhopal
Sarang issued directives to officials, emphasizing that there must be absolutely no compromise on the quality of construction work and that all necessary formalities must be completed in a timely manner. He stated that the 'Shri Khedapati Hanuman Lok Corridor' will stand as a symbol of Bhopal's faith, culture, and development, and that in the times to come, this project will establish itself as a new defining identity for the city.