Kalamandal Construction to Be Fast-Tracked for May 2026 Deadline
CM Mohan Charan Majhi reviews progress, calls for future-ready infrastructure and focus on sports development in Keonjhar
Bhubaneswar : Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has directed the Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation (IDCO) to complete the construction of the iconic Kalamandal project in Bhubaneswar by May 2026. The instruction came during a high-level review meeting at Lok Seva Bhawan, where the chief minister emphasized the need for timely execution and future-ready infrastructure.
The Kalamandal, envisioned as Odisha’s largest and most advanced theatre complex, is being constructed on 9.85 acres near Sainik School with an estimated cost of ₹173 crore. Designed to serve as a premier cultural and performing arts hub, the main auditorium will have a seating capacity of 2,000 people. Additionally, an open-air theatre with a seating capacity of 500 is also being built within the campus.
During the review, Chief Minister Majhi urged officials to accelerate construction efforts while maintaining quality standards. He stressed that the project should not only meet the completion timeline but also include essential facilities such as adequate parking areas, modern amenities, and provisions for future expansion. “This will be a landmark for Odisha’s cultural landscape. All associated infrastructure must be well-planned to serve future generations,” he said.
The chief minister also directed IDCO to ensure seamless coordination with various departments to avoid delays and to incorporate world-class facilities to make Kalamandal a cultural and tourism landmark for the state.
Alongside the Kalamandal review, the meeting also focused on sports infrastructure development in Keonjhar district. As part of the state’s broader mission to promote sports and youth empowerment, six major sports projects in Keonjhar are set to be implemented.
These include two state-of-the-art sports complexes at Ranki and Raikala, designed to host multiple sports disciplines and training facilities. A modern football stadium with provisions for both indoor and outdoor games is planned at Kali Maidan. Additionally, a high-standard swimming pool will be developed on the premises of DN High School. To further nurture local talent, an archery academy at Naranpur and a 100-bed handball sports hostel in Keonjhar are also on the cards.
The chief minister highlighted that these projects will help identify and nurture young sporting talent from tribal and rural communities, positioning Keonjhar as a sporting hub in the state. He instructed officials to ensure that all facilities are built to national standards and completed within stipulated timelines.
Officials from IDCO and departments of culture and sports presented detailed plans and assured that work is progressing as scheduled. They also noted that tendering processes, land development, and structural work for several projects are already underway.
By combining cultural infrastructure like Kalamandal with significant investments in sports development, the state government aims to create holistic platforms for talent, tourism, and economic growth. These projects are expected to boost employment, encourage community participation, and strengthen Odisha’s identity in arts and athletics.
