Ujjain’s 2,400-room Bhakt Niwas project launched to accommodate rising Mahakal devotees

Ujjain(Team Newsbuddy) : In a landmark move to address the growing accommodation needs of devotees flocking to Ujjain for religious tourism, the construction of a grand 2,400-room Bhakt Niwas (devotee lodging) has officially begun. This ambitious project is being funded entirely through public donations, without any government assistance.
During the “Samvad” event organized by the State Press Club, Madhya Pradesh, at the administrative complex, Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee President and Ujjain Collector, Neeraj Kumar Singh, provided in-depth details about the project for the first time. He highlighted the surge in pilgrim traffic following the development of Mahakal Lok, which has created a shortage of accommodations in the city. The existing hotels, lodges, and dharamshalas have been unable to cope with the increased number of devotees over the last two years. The upcoming Simhastha 2028 is expected to bring an even larger influx of visitors. In response, the Shri Mahakaleshwar Temple Management Committee has initiated the construction of the Bhakt Niwas, relying on public collaboration. A website will be launched next month to encourage donations from across the globe.
Collector Singh further explained that construction has already commenced opposite the site of the Unity Mall on Hari Phatak Road. The Ujjain Development Authority is spearheading the initial work, including land leveling and the construction of the basic structure, which is moving forward swiftly. Once this phase is completed, tenders for the full-scale construction will be issued.
In addition to this, Singh outlined Ujjain’s broader development plans in preparation for Simhastha 2028, which is expected to attract 150 million devotees. Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has already initiated several major projects, including a new medical college, airport, metro train system, ropeway, multiple flyovers, four- and six-lane highways, multi-level parking, food zones, light and sound shows, and the Rudra Sagar Bridge. These initiatives are on track to be completed a year ahead of schedule. Simultaneously, work is progressing on the cleaning of the Shipra and Kahn rivers, renovation of the ghats, and the enhancement of water and electricity infrastructure.
The event commenced with State Press Club President Praveen Khariwal briefing Collector Singh on the upcoming visit of media representatives to Ujjain. District Panchayat CEO Jayati Singh, Assistant Administrator Moolchand Junwal, and Assistant Public Relations Officer Romil Uikey were also in attendance