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Iconic Meenakshi Temple Recreated for Prayagraj's Durga Puja
14 Oct
Summary
- A 70-foot-high replica of Madurai's Meenakshi Temple is being built.
- 20 artisans from Kolkata are constructing the temple-inspired pandal.
- The Durga Mahotsav begins October 16th with idol consecration.
This year, Prayagraj's Durga Mahotsav will feature a stunning replica of the Meenakshi Temple of Madurai. The Darbhanga Barwari Durga Puja Committee selected the famed Dravidian-style shrine as the theme for its 69th celebration. The impressive structure will stand 70 feet high and 40 feet wide.
Construction began on September 10th by approximately 20 artisans from Kolkata. They have already erected the basic bamboo framework. The pandal will soon be covered and finished with plastic fibre to mimic the appearance of the original Meenakshi Temple, which is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Shiva.
Idols of deities like Shiv, Parvati, and Goddess Durga are being meticulously created. A special 13-foot-tall idol of Goddess Durga has been ordered from Kolkata and has already arrived at the pandal. The Durga Mahotsav will formally begin on October 16th, the Shashti day of Navratri, with the idol's consecration. Organizers anticipate the temple-inspired pandal will be a major attraction.