Cultural Spectacle Returns After Six-Month Hiatus
Sambalpur, May 17—Officials confirmed on Friday that the iconic light and sound show at the 16th-century Samaleswari temple in Sambalpur, Western Odisha, has resumed after a six-month suspension due to technical issues.Sanjay Baboo, President of the Samaleswari Temple Trust Board, announced that the board will oversee the show’s management. He said, “The show was halted in September 2024 because of a technical snag, but it has now been rectified. The current narration is available in Odia and Hindi, and we are working on preparing a script in Sambalpuri language as well.”
A Ten-Minute Journey Through History and Culture
The immersive show, lasting approximately ten minutes, chronicles the history of the Samaleswari temple, its vibrant rituals, festivals, and the cultural heritage of Western Odisha. This initiative aims to enrich the experience of devotees and tourists alike while promoting local traditions.Baboo emphasized, “The light and sound show will serve as an additional attraction for visitors and is expected to draw more tourists to this revered site.”
Temple and Development Projects Amplify Regional Appeal
The Samaleswari temple, built by Balram Dev, the first Chauhan king of Sambalpur, is a prominent spiritual and cultural landmark in the region. Drawing devotees and visitors from across the state, the temple has long been a focal point of religious activity.To enhance the temple’s infrastructure and visitor experience, the state government launched the Samalei Corridor Project, covering 42 acres with a total investment of ₹200 crore. Inaugurated in January last year, the first phase included beautification efforts, riverfront development, a ghat, four entrance gates, a cafeteria, a heritage pond renovation, a shopping complex (haat), parking facilities, a bhoga mandapam, a watchtower, and an organized line system for pilgrims.
The project's second phase is underway and expected to be completed by February next year, further elevating the temple's tourism potential.
With the return of the light and sound show and ongoing development work, the Samaleswari temple is poised to become a cornerstone of cultural tourism in Western Odisha.