Mahabharat circuit likely to pass through Allahabad
ALLAHABAD: Lakshagraha- the palace made of lacquer- which finds mention in the epic Mahabharat is likely to be included in the newly launched Mahabharat tourist circuit.
Lakshagraha, a palace on the banks of Ganga about six kilometres from Handia Allahabad, is in ruins despite its historical significance. The state tourist department submitted a proposal under Rajya Yojna on April 20, 2017 to include Lakshagraha in the Mahabharat tourist circuit. “If the proposal is approved this historic structure will be preserved and opened for tourists,” said Rajesh Kumar, tourism information officer.
The initiative started on the directives of Ravindra Mishra, regional tourism officer holding additional charge of Allahabad.
“We are hopeful that the proposal would be accepted. This will help in preservation and beautification of Lakshagraha. The seven kilometres stretch from Railway station to Handia will also be beautified. Experts of ancient history, culture and archeology department of Allahabad University will also be called to examine the site and ascertain its exact period,” added Kumar . According to him the approach road, lighting and boundary wall would also be constructed once the proposal is accepted. This would give boost to tourism while local people would get employment.
“We have already prepared a workplan for it. Deputy chief minister of UP Keshav Prasad Maurya also made efforts to include this spot in Swadesh Darshan Yojna under the Central plan in the past,” he said.
The officer said they also organized some programmes at this site as part of World Tourism Day celebrations.
“Likewise, we have also preserved and beautified Baba Ghuisarnath temple in Pratapgarh. It was not even having proper lights let aside other arrangements to facilitate proper darshan of the deity,” he shared.
We are hopeful that the proposal will be accepted. This will help in preservation of Lakshagraha. The seven kilometres stretch from railway station to Handia will also be beautified. RAJESH KUMAR, tourism information officer