Grand Inauguration of Mahadev Temple and Ghats at Tamsa River, Mau

Mau, Uttar Pradesh: The Mahadev Temple and newly constructed ghats on the Tamsa River in Mau are set to be inaugurated today by Energy and Urban Development Minister AK Sharma. Built at a cost of several crores, the project not only enhances the riverfront but also restores the historical and cultural significance of the Tamsa River.

Reviving Historical and Cultural Heritage

According to ancient beliefs, Rishi Valmiki’s ashram was located along the Tamsa riverbank, where Sita gave birth to Luv and Kush during her exile. Even today, villagers in Kahinour—once a dense forest area—worship Sita as the Forest Goddess, and thousands of devotees regularly visit the site. The newly constructed ghats in Mau are expected to reinforce the town’s religious and cultural importance, while simultaneously boosting tourism, inspired by the design of ghats in Varanasi and the Gomti Riverfront in Lucknow.

Construction and Materials

The beautification of the ghats, once degraded by sewage and debris, was undertaken using CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funds, costing approximately ₹9.38 crore. Special red sandstone from Dholpur and pink stones from Banshi Paharpur, Rajasthan were used, the same pink stones employed in the construction of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi temple in Ayodhya. These stones are renowned for their durability, and their shine and texture improve over time when exposed to rain and natural weathering.

Design and Features

The Tamsa riverfront ghats feature ornate chhatris crafted by skilled artisans from Rajasthan, seating arrangements for visitors, aesthetic landscaping, and spectacular lighting. A 61-foot-tall concrete statue of Mahadev stands serenely on the riverbank, adding a divine and captivating aura. Additionally, a children’s park has been constructed adjacent to the temple premises.

Tourism and Cultural Significance

In a conversation with Navbharat Times, Minister AK Sharma stated that the project will give Mau a distinct identity as a cultural and tourist destination, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of ghats locally rather than traveling to Varanasi. He emphasized that the initiative highlights Mau’s religious heritage while simultaneously promoting tourism and local development.