- Restoration and modern facilities to enhance visitor experience at one of Lucknow’s oldest faith landmarks
- Our aim is to honour the legacy and uplift the community that has kept this temple alive for generations, says Minister Jaiveer Singh
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department has begun a major redevelopment of the historic Ravidas Temple in Aliganj, one of Lucknow’s oldest and most cherished faith centres. Backed by a ₹4.64 crore integrated tourism plan, the project aims to restore the century-old shrine, improve public amenities and strengthen the temple’s role as a cultural anchor for the local community.
Tourism and Culture Minister Jaiveer Singh said the work includes upgraded lighting, drinking water points, repaired pathways, seating arrangements for devotees and restoration of ageing sections of the complex. “Our aim is to honour the legacy and uplift the community that has kept this temple alive for generations,” he said.
A 101-year-old landmark of devotion and social life
Established in 1924, the Ravidas Temple has stood as a spiritual, social and cultural centre for a full century. The site houses three ancient samadhis, including one believed to predate the temple itself. The samadhis of Baba Leeladas and Baba Tikaidas, both long-time sevadars, connect the present-day temple to its early custodians.
A temple that generations have lived around
Families living and working around the temple share decades-long bonds with it. Local cobbler Naumi Lal, whose father also worked outside the temple, says the redevelopment will bring more devotees and revive their livelihood. Sweet-seller Bholanath, whose family set up their shop here in 1931, says the temple has always been the beating heart of the neighbourhood.
For the Ravidas community and for thousands who celebrate Sant Ravidas Jayanti every year, the temple holds deep emotional significance. Locals believe that once beautification is complete, the influx of worshippers will rise, boosting small shops and traditional occupations tied to the temple for decades.
Tourism upgrade to boost footfall and livelihoods
The ongoing redevelopment is designed to improve the visitor experience while strengthening employment around the temple. Improved infrastructure and better lighting are expected to make the site more accessible for pilgrims, tourists and spiritual seekers from within Lucknow and beyond.
Minister Jaiveer Singh said the project will not only enhance facilities but also open doors to new economic opportunities. “This temple carries a century of faith and community history. Its development will uplift devotees, strengthen local livelihoods and give this heritage site the dignity it deserves.”
