Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday reviewed two landmark projects aimed at strengthening Punjab’s cultural identity and showcasing its rich heritage to the world. Chairing a high-level meeting of the Tourism and Cultural Affairs Department, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann approved the construction of a grand Welcome Gate at the Shambhu border, designed to celebrate Punjab’s ‘Panj-ab’ identity and architectural legacy, while also clearing the revised Heritage Street project at Sri Anandpur Sahib.
The Heritage Street will connect Quilla Sri Anandgarh Sahib, Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib and other historic Gurdwaras, creating a seamless spiritual and cultural corridor for devotees and visitors, while reinforcing Punjab’s commitment to preserving its religious and historical heritage. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann approved the revised plan for the proposed Heritage Street at Sri Anandpur Sahib, one of Sikhism’s most revered historic and spiritual centres.
“The proposed Heritage Street at Sri Anandpur Sahib will begin from the roundabout near Quilla Anandgarh Sahib and extend to Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib Park, Gurdwara Sisganj Sahib and Gurdwara Bhora Sahib. The project has been conceived to further strengthen the spiritual and heritage experience for devotees and visitors,” said CM Bhagwant Singh Mann.
He further stated that all necessary approvals would be secured from the concerned authorities to ensure smooth execution of the project. “The design will be duly approved by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, and other competent authorities.
A high-powered committee will also be constituted to oversee the smooth and hassle-free implementation and execution of the project,” he added. Discussing the ambitious Shambhu Welcome Gate project, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “The magnificent Welcome Gate coming up at Shambhu border will duly reflect the grandeur of Punjab.
The gate will be constructed on the four-lane NHAI (National Highway Authority of India) at a cost of ₹12 crore and will stand as a tribute to our glorious heritage and traditions.” The Chief Minister explained that the architectural marvel has been designed to seamlessly integrate with the existing highway infrastructure while maximizing its visual appeal.
“The structure will span the central median and flank the service roads, creating a striking visual identity at the gateway to Punjab. Designed as a monumental tribute to Punjab’s cultural heritage and traditional architectural language, it will incorporate detailed craftsmanship that reflects the soul of the state,” he stated.
Highlighting the unique cultural elements embedded in the design, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann said the gate would showcase regional artistry through a range of traditional motifs and architectural features. “The gate will feature stone cladding, FRP work, intricate jali patterns, Phulkari-inspired artwork and several other elements reflecting Punjab’s rich artistic traditions.
The design concept honours the etymology of ‘Panj-ab’, meaning the land of five waters, and this idea has been architecturally represented through a rhythm of fives, with five domes on each side of the gateway symbolising the unity of the state’s five rivers,” he added. Cabinet Ministers Harjot Singh Bains and Tarunpreet Singh Sond were also present during the meeting, along with other senior officials.