Hailakandi, April 10: Siddheswar temple, also known as Kapilashram or Kapilmunir Ashram, located about 25km from Hailakandi town at Thandapur near Panchgram of Hailakandi district in Assam, is all set to wear a new look.

One of the oldest temples of Barak Valley with mythological importance, Siddheswar temple always attracts visitors from across the country. Thousands of devotees congregate at the temple during the fortnight-long Baruni Mela. This year the mela was held from March 25 onwards. On the day of Baruni, devotees take a dip in the Barak river.

The temple, which is built on an old rock, is on the banks of the Barak and is dedicated to lord Shiva. The shivling in the temple is made of stone and was installed by a saint named Kapila, an ancient Indian philosopher.

In order to attract tourists, the district administration of Hailakandi has decided to develop the infrastructure of the temple.

Hailakandi deputy commissioner Moloy Bora organised a meeting a few months ago to discuss ways to restore the temple to its former glory. Bora is the president of the temple management committee.

He discussed the present state of affairs of the temple namely cracks appearing on the walls and seepage in the roof. He came up with a comprehensive plan to rebuild the structure. Secretary of the management committee Subinoy Paul said a gate will be erected in front of the temple as it is adjacent to the broad gauge railway track.