Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav has announced the development of a grand Vanvasi Ram Lok in Chitrakoot and Ram Raja Lok in Orchha, on the lines of Mahakal Lok in Ujjain, as part of the state’s efforts to develop important religious destinations.
The Chief Minister made the announcement during his visit to Chitrakoot in Satna district on the occasion of Diwali. He said that India’s cultural tradition places importance not just on tourism but also on teerthatan (pilgrimage), making the comprehensive development of religious destinations an important priority.
During the visit, Yadav performed Deep Daan in the sacred Mandakini River, offered prayers to the river and sought prosperity and well-being for the people of Madhya Pradesh and the country.
Key Announcements and Developments
The Chief Minister highlighted the state’s ongoing efforts to improve religious infrastructure and facilities at prominent pilgrimage destinations.
Read Also: MP CM Mohan Yadav Reviews Shri Ramraja Lok Project in Orchha; ₹239.87 Crore Tourism Works Underway
The major announcements and activities included:
- Vanvasi Ram Lok: A grand religious complex will be developed in Chitrakoot, associated with Lord Ram’s period of exile.
- Ram Raja Lok: Orchha will receive a dedicated Ram Raja Lok project on the lines of Mahakal Lok in Ujjain.
- Four-lane road: The foundation stone was laid for an 81.17-crore rupee four-lane road connecting Chitrakoot Dham with Gupt Godavari.
- Pilgrim facilities: The Chief Minister inspected a pontoon bridge constructed in the fair area to facilitate the movement of devotees.
₹81.17 Crore Four-Lane Road Project Launched
During the programme, Yadav performed the bhoomi pujan for the four-lane road connecting Chitrakoot Dham to Gupt Godavari. The project is being undertaken at an estimated cost of ₹81.17 crore.
He said the road would make travel more convenient for pilgrims and tourists visiting the religious destination.
The Chief Minister also reviewed arrangements in the fair area, including the pontoon bridge established for devotees. He visited a healthcare camp set up to provide medical assistance and emergency treatment to visitors.
Chitrakoot’s Connection with Lord Ram
Highlighting Chitrakoot’s religious significance, Yadav said Lord Ram had spent more than 11 years of his exile in the region, making it an important centre associated with his life.
He also referred to Madhya Pradesh’s connections with other prominent spiritual and historical figures.
He noted that Lord Krishna received his education in Ujjain, while Adi Shankaracharya met his guru and received spiritual knowledge at Omkareshwar.
According to the Chief Minister, these associations make Madhya Pradesh an important part of India’s ancient cultural and spiritual heritage.
CM Offers Prayers at Kamatanath Temple, Interacts with Devotees
As part of the five-day Deepotsav fair organised during Diwali in Chitrakoot, the Chief Minister performed Deep Daan at Panchvati Ghat on the banks of the Mandakini River. Lakhs of devotees were participating in the celebrations.
He also visited the Kamatanath Temple, where he offered prayers and sought blessings. During the visit, he distributed sweets among devotees and extended Diwali greetings.
Yadav also interacted with children selling earthen lamps along the roadside and purchased lamps from them.
In another informal interaction, the Chief Minister stopped at a roadside tea stall after visiting the temple. He enjoyed tea served in an earthen cup, prepared tea himself and spoke with devotees present at the shop.
Read Also: Bhopal’s Draft Master Plan Proposes 51-Km Growth Corridor, ₹20,000-Crore Project Estimate
