A CORRESPONDENT
HAFLONG: The North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) is all set to dedicate the Ranachandi Madaikho or Temple Park at Maibang in Dima Hasao district with a grand opening ceremony on Friday.
Maibang, once the capital of the Dimasa kingdom (16th to 18th century), will once again see a major facelift with the inauguration of the temple park, also popularly known as Maibang stone house, since the Autonomous Council has decided to enhance the tourism potential of Maibang when it embarked to develop a plot of land of over 18 bighas near the temple.
The land came into existence after the river course was changed and subsequent beautification work was carried out. A recreation park with Dimasa cultural motifs and symbols, historical figures, vast greenery along with other amenities has been developed. Visitors can have a beautiful view of the Ranachandi Madaikho or temple surrounded by a lake from there. Even railway passengers passing through Maibang can have a glimpse of the mesmerizing park from the railway bridge.
This beautification drive will provide employment to the youth of the area as there would be an increase in visitors' footfall. Home stays, tourist guides, cultural programmes, ethnic food stalls, handloom and handicraft huts, trekking and a host of other income-generating opportunities could spring up.
Maibang means 'plenty of rice' and it is recognized as the cradle of Dimasa civilization, culture and heritage. The serene Mahur River, meandering along the fertile plains of Maibang, remains testimony to one of the proud remnants of Dimasa history and heritage.
The township is located around 50 kilometres off Haflong, the district headquarters of Dima Hasao. During autumn and winter, the town is thronged by tourists. Maibang has a Railway station and the four-lane National Highway no. 27 connecting Maibang with the Cachar district and also Guwahati.
At least 20,000-30,000 people are expected during the two-day inaugural ceremony which will include book release, traditional/folk singing, musical instruments, quiz, sports competition etc. followed by a cultural night.
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