Lok Sabha

July 26, 2016

Aparupa Poddar speaks on allocation of funds for pilgrimage to Tarakeswar during Zero Hour

Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker, Sir, for allowing me to raise this issue of my parliamentary constituency during Zero Hour.

Tarakeswar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important place of pilgrimage built during the 17th century. This is one of the oldest temples of India.

It records the maximum crowd during the holy day of Maha Shivratri and also the month of Shravan. Being an important religious place dedicated to Lord Shiva, Tarakeswar is a major place of pilgrimage. The Dudhpukur Tank in the north of the Temple, where the prayers of those who take a dip in it are fulfilled, needs to be cleaned and beautified.

Though it is well-connected by rail, there is a demand by the public to operate more trains during the festival. During the month of Shravan, people walk long distances to reach Tarakeswar, even from Kolkata.

Hence I request the Ministry of Culture to take up this matter in its consideration and allocate more funds to repair the basic necessities of this temple as it is an important place of pilgrimage.

Thank you, Sir.