Mamata Banerjee Lays Foundation for Mahakal Temple in Siliguri, Eyes Global Tourism Hub

• Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee laid the foundation stone for the Mahakal Temple in Siliguri.
• The temple, named Mahakal Mahatirtha, will be built on 17.4 acres near Matigara, Siliguri.
• Banerjee envisions it as an international tourist center and one of the world's largest Shiva temples, accommodating 1 lakh devotees daily.
• The complex will feature the world's tallest Mahakal idol (216 feet) and another 108-foot bronze spherical idol on a 108-foot base.
• Construction is projected to be completed in approximately two and a half years.

Why It Matters: Mamata Banerjee initiated the Mahakal Mahatirtha project in Siliguri, aiming to create a major global Shiva temple and tourist destination.