A couple of months following the opening of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Bihar government declared plans for a magnificent Sita temple dedicated to Mata Sita in Bihar's Sitamarhi district.

According to the report, the Bihar government plans to acquire an additional 50 acres of land, in addition to the 16.63 acres previously procured, for the expansion of the area around the existing temple. The Janaki Temple, as per the Bihar Tourism's official site, is considered the birthplace of Mata Sita. The temple witnesses a surge of devotees during the Navratri and Ram Navami festivals. The Janaki temple, believed to be a century old, is renowned as the location where Sita was found as an infant by King Janaka and nurtured under a shade in the field.

The temple is quite expansive and features a contemporary design and the proposed temple's construction would be overseen by a public trust, similar to the Ram Temple.

Dr. S Siddharth, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, stated that while the government itself cannot construct a temple, it is responding to widespread requests for a grand temple at this location by acquiring the necessary land.

He further mentioned that amenities like hotels and public facilities would be established to accommodate the expected influx of pilgrims.

Sita Temple
Image : News18

Sitamarhi is one of the 15 significant locations referenced in the Ramayana

Sitamarhi is part of the 'Ramayana Circuit,' a collection of 15 significant locations referenced in the Ramayana. This circuit has been recognized by the BJP-led Union government for development to enhance religious tourism.

This decision was made during a cabinet meeting in Bihar on a Friday. Kameshwar Chaupal, an ex-MLC of Bihar, expressed that Sitamarhi holds religious significance for Hindus as it is believed to be Mata Sita's birthplace, drawing parallels to Ayodhya's significance to Lord Rama.

Chaupal conveyed to the Indian Express that just as Ayodhya is sacred to Ram, Sitamarhi holds the same importance for Sita. He anticipates that devotees from around the globe, who will visit the Ram temple in Ayodhya, would also want to pay their respects at Sita's birthplace. He advocates for a majestic temple for Sita in Sitamarhi that matches her stature.

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