In devotion:Narendra Modi performs puja at the Lord Mahakal temple in Ujjain on Tuesday, ahead of dedicating to the nation the first phase of the 'Shri Mahakal Lok' corridor.PTI-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said Ujjain had led India’s prosperity and knowledge for thousands of years.

Amid Vedic chants, Mr. Modi unveiled a large shivling covered in strands of sacred red threads placed below the grand gateway — Nandi Dwar — of Mahakal Lok to mark the inauguration of the mega corridor in Ujjain.

Speaking at a public function after performing puja at the Mahakaleshwar temple and inaugurating the first phase of the Rs. 856 crore Mahakal Lok corridor project, Mr. Modi said the project will add to Ujjain’s vibrancy.

“Spirituality is contained in every particle and divine energy is being transmitted in every corner of Ujjain,” he said, adding, “Ujjain has led India’s prosperity, knowledge, dignity and literature for thousands of years.”

“Innovation comes with renovation. India is renovating what it had lost in the era of slavery. India is renovating it and restoring its glory,” he said.

“During the Azadi Ka Amritkaal , we broke the shackles of colonialism…Today, cultural destinations across India are seeing all-around development. For the first time, Char Dhams are being connected with all-weather roads,” Mr. Modi said.

Mahakal Lok corridor

Before the event, Modi inaugurated the 900-metre-long Mahakal Lok corridor built at the Mahakaleshwar temple. The corridor has around 108 aesthetically ornate pillars made of intricately carved sandstones that depict the Anand Tandav Swaroop [a form of dance of Lord Shiva], 200 statues and murals of Lord Shiva and goddess Shakti .

It also has gushing fountains surrounded by artistic sculptures of the deity as well as 53 illuminated murals depicting stories from the Shiv Puran .

The first phase of the project is expected to significantly boost tourism in this city of Madhya Pradesh.

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