Patna, November 2026: Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary on Saturday inaugurated development works worth Rs 14.78 crore at the ancient Deo Surya Temple complex in Tarari block of Bhojpur district through video conferencing from the ‘Sankalp’ auditorium at Lok Seva Awas in Patna.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister welcomed everyone participating in the programme and extended his greetings and best wishes to the people of Bihar on the second day of the Chhath Mahaparv, offering prayers to Lord Surya Narayan.
He said the inauguration of the development projects at the Deo Surya Temple was a matter of great happiness for the residents of Tarari and the entire state. He also congratulated the Tourism Department for undertaking the initiative.
Describing the Deo Surya Temple as an ancient and spiritually significant religious centre, the Chief Minister said a large number of devotees visit the temple to worship the Sun God. The temple complex houses several ancient idols and holds considerable religious and cultural importance.
He said the development of the temple premises would attract more religious tourists, generate employment opportunities for local residents and improve facilities for devotees and visitors. The initiative would also enhance the overall significance of the religious destination and contribute to the growth of tourism in the region.
Highlighting the importance of Chhath Mahaparv, Choudhary said the festival was one of Bihar's most prominent celebrations, reflecting the state's deep-rooted faith, rich cultural heritage and respect for nature.
He observed that the worship of the Sun God had been an integral part of Bihar's traditions for centuries. Describing the Sun as an eternal source of energy, he said the Sun provides life and energy to the entire universe. During Chhath, devotees worship Lord Bhaskar with utmost devotion, faith and dedication.
The Chief Minister said the state government was committed to developing religious and cultural destinations while improving facilities for devotees. Under the 'Seva Sankalp Evam Kayakalp Abhiyan', various ghats and other infrastructure facilities were being constructed and upgraded to ensure better arrangements for Chhath devotees and visitors.
He also directed officials to pay special attention to public safety and ensure that all necessary arrangements during Chhath Mahaparv function smoothly. The administration had been instructed to provide adequate facilities, security and other essential services for devotees.
Appealing to the people of Bihar, Choudhary urged everyone to celebrate Chhath with faith, peace and communal harmony. He prayed to Lord Bhaskar for Bihar's continued progress and prosperity and expressed hope that the state's development would contribute to the realisation of the vision of a developed India.
Details of Development Works
Tourism Department Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh welcomed the Chief Minister by presenting him with a green sapling. Through a detailed presentation, he explained the development projects being undertaken at the Deo Surya Temple complex.
He informed that a Mangal Bhawan (G+1) had been constructed within the premises. The facility would provide space for weddings and other auspicious ceremonies, besides offering accommodation and resting facilities for devotees and tourists.
A dedicated Chhath ghat has also been constructed to facilitate devotees performing Chhath rituals. The development is expected to enhance the appearance and attractiveness of the temple complex.
Additionally, the temple premises have been developed with a boundary wall, pathways and an aesthetically designed main entrance. These improvements are expected to make the religious complex more attractive and convenient for visitors.
Deputy Chief Minister Bijendra Prasad Yadav, Tourism Minister Kedar Prasad Gupta, Chief Minister's Secretary and Tourism Department Secretary Lokesh Kumar Singh, Chief Minister's Secretary Sanjay Kumar Singh, Tourism Department Director Udayan Mishra, Joint Secretary Pradeep Kumar Singh and other senior officials attended the programme.
Members of Parliament, MLAs, the District Magistrate, Superintendent of Police, other officials, distinguished guests and local residents also joined the inauguration ceremony through video conferencing.