Mukti Vanam is a unique garden that is coming up initially on five acres of land close to the famous Kaleswaram Shiva temple here, as part of an eco-tourism development initiative by the district administration.
The temple, situated at the confluence of the river Godavari, its largest tributary Pranahita, and the mythical
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“Within it will be a Smruti Vanam, which offers an opportunity for individuals to plant a sapling of their choice in the memory of deceased family members,” said Mahadevpur Forest Range Officer B. Ramesh, adding, “Planting a sapling and seeing it grow is the best homage one can offer to departed souls.”
An 'astro-garden' with a ‘Raasi Vanam’, ‘Navagraha Vanam’, ‘Shiva Panchayat Vanam’ and ‘Nakshatra Vanam’, each with its dedicated space, is also planned. The required plants are being grown in a nursery within the garden complex.
In Hindu belief, each
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“People planting trees at Mukti Vanam pay a nominal fee towards their maintenance and will be offered free entry to the park,” said eco-tourism coordinator K. Suman.
A deer park, 'tree huts', a pond, a children's play area and a walking track are among Mukti Vanam's other proposed attractions.
The Telangana government has allocated ₹25 crore for the development of the Kaleswaram Temple, and ₹1 crore for creating Mukti Vanam. “The park will be open for to devotees within the next two months and will be a great value addition to the Kaleswaram Temple,” District Collector A. Murali told The Hindu .