The Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) has sanctioned Rs 9.32 crore from its CSR fund for development of the Maa Hingula Temple at Talcher.

This would provide an impetus to tourism in the area in particular, said Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi in his reply to a letter from his Cabinet colleague Dharmendra Pradhan.

Pradhan had written to Joshi on January 13 seeking his direction to the MCL for a favourable and expeditious consideration of the CSR proposal submitted by the Maa Hingula Thakurani Trust Board. Informing Joshi about the immense spiritual and socio-cultural importance of Maa Hingula Temple to the people of Odisha, Pradhan had written that the temple at Gopalprasad in Talcher is considered as one of the most sacred religious sites in the State.

Dedicated to Maa Hingula, a manifestation of the Goddess Sati, the temple is believed to have been built by the mythical King Nala of Vidarbha as his tribute to Lord Jagannath.

Till this day, the fire used to cook Mahaprasad in the kitchens of the Jagannath Temple in Puri symbolically represents Maa Hingula. Historically patronised by the ruler of Talcher, the Maa Hingula Temple draws pilgrims and tourists year round, particularly on the occasion of Hingula Yatra held on Shukla Chaturdashi of Chaitra month.

Pradhan’s letter said, “I was touched to know about the generosity of MCL employees who voluntarily contributed funds from their salary towards construction of the main temple building.

 I also understand that recently, Maa Hingula Thakurani Trust Board had submitted a proposal to the management of the MCL for CSR project involving construction of Natya Mandap Yajna mandap at an estimated cost of Rs 16.64 crore.  These developments will not only improve the devotee facilities and experience at temple but also boost tourist footfall in the region.”