Siliguri to Host World's Tallest Mahakal Idol at New Mahatirtha Temple

• Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee laid the foundation stone for the Mahakal Mahatirtha temple in Siliguri, near Matigara, on 17.4 acres.
• The temple will feature the world's tallest Mahakal idol, standing 216 feet high, and a 108-foot bronze spherical idol on a 108-foot base.
• It will include 12 Abhishek Linga temples with replicas of India's 12 Jyotirlingas, two circumambulation paths for 10,000 devotees, and two assembly halls for 6,000 people.
• The complex will also have Rudraksha Kund, Amrit Kund, a prasad distribution center, cafeteria, dala arcade, and priest accommodation.
• Expected to be completed in two and a half years, the project aims to boost tourism, create jobs, and establish an international tourist center.

Why It Matters: Siliguri's new Mahakal Mahatirtha temple, with the world's tallest Mahakal idol, will be a major spiritual and tourist hub.