DETAILED PROJECT REPORT: KASHI–RAMESWARAM SPIRITUAL INTEGRATION INITIATIVE

The Maha Prayuta Chandika Homa is the catalyst for launching the Kashi–Rameswaram Spiritual Integration Initiative (K–R SII). This project addresses the critical need for high-quality, affordable infrastructure and organized travel services connecting the four cardinal points of India’s spiritual geography.

Rationale:

The lack of standardized, affordable facilities limits the movement of pilgrims and cultural exchange between North and South India. The K–R SII will create verifiable assets that encourage inter-state travel, aligning perfectly with the national mandate of Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.

This pillar focuses on creating the physical assets necessary to sustain spiritual tourism growth.

2.1 The Kashi–Rameswaram Twin Infrastructure Corridor

The project aims to develop twin-city infrastructure that facilitates easy travel and stay for pilgrims moving between the cardinal centers of North and South.

• Focus: Streamlining regional travel logistics
• Focus: Establishing centralized booking hubs
• Focus: Improving last-mile connectivity at each hub

Action: Establishment of dedicated information and logistics kiosks at major railway and bus stations in both Kashi and Rameswaram, offering organized tour packages to the respective regions.

2.2 High-Capacity Affordable Accommodation Centers

The current supply of affordable, high-quality pilgrim accommodation is insufficient. We propose standardized, high-volume centers at key destinations, managed on a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model.

This pillar addresses the softer aspects of national integration by supporting traditional spiritual ecosystems and ensuring cultural exchange.

3.1 Sponsorship and Development of Juna Akhada (South India Division)

The Akhadas are central to the preservation of ancient spiritual traditions. Direct, sustained support will ensure their South Indian division flourishes, acting as a bridge for traditional knowledge.

Action:
Five-year sponsorship commitment to the Juna Akhada, focusing on:

• Infrastructure: Establishing permanent Ashrams or Maths in key Southern states (e.g., Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh).
• Cultural Exchange: Funding exchange programs for Sadhus and Sadhvis between North and South centers.

3.2 Organized Spiritual Tourism and Community Linkages

This initiative connects various Maths and community organizations in the South to the national tourism framework, guaranteeing organized travel for pilgrims.

Action:
Creation of the Dharma Sanchaar Service — a dedicated travel arm working in association with key Southern spiritual institutions.
This service will provide:

• Subsidized Group Travel: Well-organized bus/train services connecting Southern communities directly to Kashi, Ayodhya, and Chitrakoot.
• Cultural Liaison: Dedicated local language support and cultural guides to bridge the linguistic and cultural gaps for travelers.

Creating a permanent, globally recognized heritage symbol that anchors the spiritual significance of the South.

4.1 The Lord Hanuman Ji Statue at Dhanushkodi

Dhanushkodi, the launching point for the Ram Setu, holds profound significance as the location where Lord Hanuman prepared to leap to Lanka.

Action: Establishing the Tallest Statue of Lord Hanuman Ji at the southernmost point of the mainland near Dhanushkodi, Tamil Nadu.

Design: A monumental statue (e.g., 108 or 151 feet tall) designed to withstand coastal weather, serving as a lighthouse and a spiritual beacon.

Impact: Instantly creates a global landmark that drives international and domestic spiritual tourism to Rameswaram and the coastal region, ensuring the narrative of Ramayana is physically anchored at this sacred location.

This project is a long-term commitment requiring a Public–Private Partnership (PPP) model.

Financial Estimate (Initial Phase – 5 Years)

The total estimated cost for the initial phase of the K–R SII is approximately ₹500 Crore, allocated primarily to land acquisition, construction of accommodation centers, and landmark creation.

Governance Support Request

• Land Allocation: Facilitation of necessary land parcels for the high-capacity accommodation centers in Kashi, Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, and Rameswaram.
• Statue Site Clearance: Expedited clearance and assistance with coastal regulation zone (CRZ) approvals for the construction of the Hanuman Statue at Dhanushkodi.
• PPP Framework: Formal agreement to establish the PPP framework for construction and long-term operational management of the accommodation centers, leveraging the expertise of both public and private sectors.