CM Bhagwant Mann and Arvind Kejriwal Launch Rs 75 Crore Development Works at Shri Kali Mata Temple in Patiala

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and Aam Aadmi Party’s National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal launched development projects worth Rs 75 crore for the renovation of the historic Shri Kali Mata Temple today. While addressing the gathering, Arvind Kejriwal said it is the government’s duty to give priority to such public welfare projects. He expressed regret that previous state governments never showed real interest in such important works. Kejriwal said he felt blessed that the goddess gave the AAP-led government this opportunity. He added that the entire project will be completed within a year.

What Makes Shri Kali Mata Temple So Special?

The AAP leader said that Shri Kali Mata Temple is one of the most respected and ancient temples in North India. He mentioned that it reflects Punjab’s rich spiritual heritage and royal history. Kejriwal explained that within the temple complex, along with the main shrine of Goddess Kali Mata, there is also an ancient temple dedicated to the divine form of Shakti, Shri Raj Rajeshwari Ji.

He said that both these places of devotion make the temple complex not only spiritually powerful but also architecturally unique, where age-old traditions beautifully blend with modern infrastructure. He added that around 10,000 devotees visit daily, about 40,000 on Saturdays, and during Navratri, the number reaches nearly one lakh. Arvind Kejriwal shared that the state government has started several projects worth Rs 73.52 crore to give the temple a new look.

What New Facilities Are Being Developed for Devotees?

He said that to provide clean water to the temple’s sacred pond from the Bhakra Canal, a project worth Rs 1.15 crore is in progress. The temple’s existing sewerage and rainwater systems are also being upgraded at a cost of Rs 49.06 lakh. Arvind Kejriwal further said that an Aam Aadmi Clinic is being set up inside the temple complex at a cost of Rs 25 lakh to provide medical help to both visitors and local residents.

Chief Minister Mann announced that a light and sound show, similar to those at famous pilgrimage sites, will be organized near the pond to enhance the temple’s spiritual atmosphere and beauty. He said this project would cost Rs 6.78 crore, and tenders have already been issued. In the newly constructed building, a lift worth Rs 15.11 lakh is also being installed.

How Will These Projects Help Pilgrims?

The Chief Minister said that a new walkway is being built near the pond for the comfort of devotees. He mentioned that new temple buildings, corridors, boundary walls, entrance gates, and pond-related works are all being developed together. To serve pilgrims, especially those from faraway areas or weaker backgrounds, daily langar service will be started by Bhagwant Mann following Sikh and Hindu traditions.

He added that the temple pond will be completely renovated, including desilting, waterproofing, stonework on the edges, and pathway construction. Mann said these projects will enhance the temple’s glory while preserving its sacredness and heritage. He also proposed reopening and restoring the old gate used during heavy traffic times.

What Future Plans Are in Place for the Temple’s Growth?

The Chief Minister said that all the temple gates will be redesigned using traditional architecture. During weekends and Navratri, when large crowds visit, a proper queue management system with barricaded lanes and signboards will be introduced. He added that a detailed master plan is being made with advice from urban planning and heritage experts, covering future construction, heritage conservation, pilgrimage facilities, cleanliness, parking, and traffic management. To prevent crowding and ensure smooth prasad distribution, a token system like the one at Vaishno Devi Temple will be introduced. For elderly devotees, mothers, and differently-abled persons, the congregation hall will be upgraded into a fully air-conditioned hall.

Bhagwant Mann said it is the government’s responsibility to protect Punjab’s cultural heritage so that the younger generation stays connected to its glorious past. He further shared that a hall for visitors’ stay and parking space for 300 vehicles are being developed inside the temple. The Chief Minister said the state government is fully committed to making this spiritual site a fine example of architecture in Punjab and will leave no effort undone to achieve it. On this occasion, Cabinet Minister Dr. Balbir Singh and senior AAP leader Manish Sisodia were also present.