Odisha Schools, Colleges to Remain Closed on January 27 Due to SAMALEI Project Inauguration

The Odisha government has declared a holiday for all state schools and colleges on January 27 to commemorate the inauguration of the Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economy Initiatives (SAMALEI) project in Sambalpur. This decision, made to encourage public participation in the event, was reported by Kalinga TV. This day also happens to be the fourth Saturday of the month, therefore government offices will also remain closed.

The Samaleswari Temple Area Management and Local Economy Initiatives (SAMALEI) initiative is set to be launched on January 27 by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.The inaugural rites began on January 22, and on January 26, a Kalash Yatra comprising women from the city will conclude the ceremonies. The water gathered throughout the Yatra will be used for the holy bath of the Goddess.

With a budget of Rs 200 crore, the SAMALEI project is a redevelopment plan for the shrine of Goddess Samaleswari in Sambalpur, which was launched by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on February 17, 2021. The state government reportedly invested over Rs 200 crore in this extensive project, according to media reports.

Modern facilities, the construction of a heritage corridor, the enhancement and peripheral development of the temple, and the development of the Mahanadi riverside over an approximate 40-acre area are all included in the renovation. In order to accommodate the needs of the large number of tourists and devotees that visit the shrine every day, the project includes four heritage gates on the four sides of the temple in addition to parking spaces, concession areas, and restrooms close to the temple.

A 30-meter-wide road that connects the temple zone with the Mahanadi bank and housing projects for temple servitors are also part of the developments. The path is anticipated to make it easier for the presiding Goddess to perform her daily Mahanadi alati ceremonies. The government’s plan calls for the development of a 108-acre area around the temple in order to improve the surroundings and overall experience of guests.

In the meantime, the state government of Haryana has decided to extend winter break for students in classes 1 through 5 due to the extreme cold wave. The schools will now be closed through January 27, 2024.