In a significant move to bolster the cricketing infrastructure in Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to lay the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art international cricket stadium in Varanasi on Saturday. This monumental announcement comes from an official statement and underscores the emphasis on sports development in the region.
Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the Uttar Pradesh government has invested a commendable Rs 121 crore for land acquisition for this prestigious project. Meanwhile, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has earmarked a substantial sum of Rs 330 crore for the stadium's construction.
The inauguration ceremony promises to be a star-studded affair. Cricket aficionados can anticipate the presence of cricket legends like Sachin Tendulkar, Sunil Gavaskar, and Ravi Shastri, among others, gracing the occasion. The event will also witness the attendance of BCCI's prominent figures, including its President Roger Binny, Vice President Rajiv Shukla, and Secretary Jay Shah.
A unique feature of this upcoming stadium is its design, which is deeply rooted in the cultural aesthetics of Varanasi. Aptly capturing the "essence of Kashi", the architectural marvels of the stadium include crescent-shaped roof covers and floodlights designed in the form of a trident. Echoing the local art and religious sentiments, the patterns on the stadium mirror bel leaves, and one of its structures bears a resemblance to the 'damru', a musical instrument synonymous with Lord Shiva.
Adding to the stadium's allure, a specially designed spectator gallery will reflect the iconic steps of the Varanasi ghats. The stadium, boasting a seating capacity for 30,000 spectators and equipped with seven pitches, stands poised to become a landmark in the world of cricket. Nestled near the Ring Road in the Rajatalab area, cricket enthusiasts can expect the stadium to be fully functional by December 2025.
This upcoming cricketing venue in Varanasi marks a significant addition to Uttar Pradesh's international cricket landscape. Following Kanpur and Lucknow, this will be the third international cricket stadium in the state, reinforcing Uttar Pradesh's commitment to fostering and promoting cricket. The establishment of such a facility is not only a step towards nurturing budding cricket talent but also promises to be a hub for major cricketing events in the future.
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