Bhopal: Mohan Yadav said that Emperor Vikramaditya established enduring benchmarks of governance, justice and social harmony whose relevance continues even after two millennia, while addressing the Vikramotsav-2026 celebrations in Bhopal on Thursday.
The Chief Minister made the remarks during the Koti Surya Upasana programme organised at Ravindra Bhavan, where he also installed the Brahma Dhwaj and extended greetings to citizens on the occasion of Navasamvatsar, Gudi Padwa, Cheti Chand, Navratri, Navreh and Vikram Samvat 2083.
CM Links Vikram Samvat to Governance and Social Justice
Dr Yadav said the beginning of Navasamvatsar represents not only the Indian New Year but also the continuation of a civilisational tradition rooted in harmony with creation, nature and righteous governance.
He said Vikram Samvat, which has now entered its 2083rd year, began through the valour and leadership of Vikramaditya after his victory over the Shakas.
According to the Chief Minister, Vikramaditya defeated forces of disorder, removed oppression from society and relieved people from debt, thereby laying a strong foundation for social harmony.
He described the emperor as a symbol of democratic spirit and just administration.
“His Governance Benchmarks Still Guide Us”
The Chief Minister said that the governance model associated with Vikramaditya continues to inspire modern administration.
He stated that the Madhya Pradesh government is attempting to move forward by internalising principles associated with:
• justice
• courage
• public welfare
• administrative discipline
• inclusive development
Dr Yadav said these ideals remain relevant in contemporary governance and continue to offer direction to governments even today.
Government Refers to Vikramaditya in Institutional Initiatives
Highlighting initiatives inspired by Vikramaditya’s legacy, the Chief Minister referred to the establishment of:
• Veer Vikramaditya Research Chair
• Vedic Clock initiative
He said such efforts aim to reconnect governance with India’s civilisational heritage.
Brahma Dhwaj Installed During Vikramotsav Programme
During the event, Dr Yadav installed the Brahma Dhwaj and said the flag symbolises unity, discipline and dedication to service of both nation and state.
He said the flag should serve as a continuing source of inspiration for collective responsibility.
Koti Surya Upasana Organised at Ravindra Bhavan
The Koti Surya Upasana programme formed part of the larger Vikramotsav-2026 celebrations.
The event began with ceremonial lamp-lighting by the Chief Minister.
Large participation was seen during the programme, which combined cultural and spiritual elements with historical remembrance.
Greetings Extended on Multiple Festivals
The Chief Minister extended greetings on several occasions being observed across India on the same day, including:
• Gudi Padwa
• Cheti Chand
• Vikram Samvat 2083
• Ghat Sthapana
• beginning of Navratri
• Jyotirvigyan Diwas
• Navreh
He described the day as spiritually significant and said Indian tradition treats the beginning of the new year as aligned with cosmic creation.
Vikramaditya Described as Early Democratic Inspiration
Dr Yadav said Vikramaditya’s administrative framework inspired later rulers to move toward welfare-oriented governance.
He argued that although Vikramaditya ruled in an earlier age, his style of governance reflected democratic principles because it centred on welfare and justice.
According to him, this is why Vikramaditya continues to be remembered even after 2,000 years.
Democracy Embedded in Indian Civilisational Thought
The Chief Minister said democratic values are deeply embedded in Indian society.
He remarked that Indian civilisation has long followed the principle of “live and let live” and has historically promoted coexistence and social inclusiveness.
He added that democracy has become inseparable from India’s civilisational identity.
MLA Bhagwandas Sabnani Praises Governance Under CM Yadav
Bhagwandas Sabnani, while delivering the welcome address, said new standards of governance are being established in Madhya Pradesh under Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.
He referred to Ujjain as the karmabhoomi of Vikramaditya and said democratic values historically radiated from there.
Play on Samrat Vikramaditya Staged
A theatrical presentation titled Samrat Vikramaditya was staged during the event.
The performance focused on the emperor’s life, rule and historical-cultural legacy.
The Chief Minister later felicitated participating theatre artists.
Vikramotsav Positioned as Cultural-Governance Narrative
The programme reflected the state government’s effort to connect cultural heritage with governance messaging, especially through symbols linked to Vikramaditya and Vikram Samvat.
