Arvind Kejriwal has announced a series of religious initiatives in Punjab, including a proposed Mata Sita‑Luv Kush temple in Amritsar, expansion of pilgrimage routes, and statewide Shiv devotional events.
Temple Project to Boost Amritsar’s Spiritual Profile
AAP national convenor Arvind Kejriwal unveiled plans to construct a grand temple dedicated to Mata Sita, along with Luv and Kush, in Amritsar. The temple is proposed to be built near the Bhagwan Valmiki temple, further strengthening the spiritual identity of the city.
Kejriwal highlighted the cultural and mythological importance of the region, noting its association with the Ramayana. He stated that the project would attract devotees from across the country and abroad, enhancing Amritsar’s status as a major religious destination. The planned temple is expected to become a landmark site, adding to the city’s already prominent religious attractions.
Statewide Shiv Devotional Programmes Announced
As part of a broader cultural push, Kejriwal announced that the ‘Ek Shaam Shivji Ke Naam’ programme will now be conducted across all 22 cities of Punjab. The devotional events, which began earlier in Jalandhar and Amritsar, have witnessed strong public participation.
These programmes will feature bhajan performances by popular devotional artists and aim to foster a shared sense of spirituality and community among citizens. The government plans to expand the series to ensure that people across the state can take part in these gatherings. Kejriwal described the initiative as an effort to bring spirituality closer to people through accessible and large-scale cultural events.
Teerath Yatra Scheme Expanded with New Routes
The Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra Yojna, a flagship pilgrimage scheme of the Punjab government, will also be expanded with three new routes. Previously covering visits to Darbar Sahib and Anandpur Sahib, the scheme will soon include additional journeys.
The new routes will connect pilgrims to Salasar and Khatu Shyam Ji, Haridwar and Rishikesh, as well as Mathura and Vrindavan. These destinations are among the most important religious sites in India and are expected to attract significant interest. The expanded scheme is scheduled to begin around August 1 and is expected to benefit nearly 1.5 lakh pilgrims. The government will cover all travel expenses, including accommodation and food, ensuring that people from all economic backgrounds can participate.
Patiala’s Kali Mata Temple Undergoing Redevelopment
Kejriwal also spoke about the ongoing redevelopment of the historic Kali Mata Temple in Patiala. The project, being carried out at a cost of ₹80 crore, aims to upgrade infrastructure and improve facilities for visitors. The redevelopment is progressing quickly and is expected to be completed in the coming months. Once finished, the temple is likely to become one of the largest and most prominent religious sites in North India. The project is expected to enhance religious tourism in the region and provide a better experience for devotees.
Cultural Promotion Through ‘Hamare Ram’ Play
In addition to religious infrastructure, Kejriwal announced that the theatrical production ‘Hamare Ram’ will be staged across Punjab starting August 1. The play presents narratives from the life of Lord Ram and offers a unique cultural experience. The production, featuring well-known actors, will be made available free of cost for the public in Punjab. This initiative aims to promote cultural awareness while making high-quality performances accessible to a wider audience.
Strengthening Faith and Tourism Together
The announcements reflect a broader strategy to integrate spirituality, culture, and development in Punjab. By investing in temples, pilgrimage schemes, and devotional events, the government aims to encourage religious tourism and community participation. Amritsar, already a major pilgrimage hub, is expected to gain further prominence with the proposed temple and related initiatives. These steps are likely to boost local economies and create opportunities linked to tourism and services.
