Odisha writes to Centre, seeks aid to develop Mahanadi corridor on ancient pilgrimage route

Bhubaneswar: Odisha govt has decided to develop an ancient pilgrimage route along river Mahanadi and create associated cultural infrastructure, seeking financial and technical support from the Union ministry of culture.In a letter to the ministry on June 24, chief secretary Anu Garg also sought necessary approvals for documenting and preserving the Mahanadi's cultural landscape, and developing the proposed pilgrimage corridor.The state has proposed a comprehensive cultural mapping of the Mahanadi river basin, covering its temples, rituals, traditions and other tangible and intangible heritage. It has also sought the establishment of interpretation centres in Hirakud influence area and other infrastructure along the river.The letter noted that Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) already expressed willingness to support the initiative, and undertake cultural mapping and documentation in collaboration with the Odisha govt. However, despite earlier communications sent in March and last Aug, the state is yet to receive a response from the ministry.“The proposed initiative is of considerable national importance, both for preserving India's civilisational heritage and promoting sustainable cultural tourism," said Garg.A senior official said Mahanadi is the cultural lifeline of Odisha. Officials said the proposed corridor could become a major heritage tourism project, showcasing the river's historical and civilisational importance.