Bhopal June 16, 2026

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav chaired a review meeting of the Culture Department at Mantralaya on Monday. He made it clear that the state's art, culture and heritage deserve far more attention and a stronger push going forward. He said the coming six to seven months are packed with festivals, fairs and cultural celebrations. These are not just occasions of faith, but also expressions of gratitude towards nature. He directed the Culture Department to organise large-scale events that bring all communities together. Special programmes should be held to honour Alha and Udal, the legendary heroes of the region's ballad tradition. Shravan Mahotsav and the Bhujaria Festival should also be celebrated. On Nag Panchami, he said, the occasion should be used to spread awareness about biodiversity and the protection of snake species.

CM also stressed that cultural events should go beyond celebration. They should carry the government's messages to the people and encourage genuine public participation. Villages, towns and cities all need to be part of this effort so that the younger generation stays rooted in the state's rich artistic traditions.

On the heritage front, Dr. Yadav announced that a separate academy will be set up in the name of Samrat Vikramaditya to carry out research on his life, legacy and contributions. He asked officials to speed up work on the Shri Ram Van Gaman Path and the Shri Krishna Pathay Project as well, describing them as important not just for religious faith but for the state's cultural tourism as well.

He directed that the Chief Minister Teerth Darshan Scheme be expanded to include the two Jyotirlingas in MP, along with Shakti Peethas and other significant religious sites within the state. He also released the Kala Panchang, a detailed cultural calendar prepared by the department for 2026-27, and asked that it be implemented systematically through the year.

The CM asked officials to identify singers, artists and eminent personalities from MP who have earned recognition nationally and internationally and encourage them to perform in the state. He also directed that deserving artists, social workers and environmentalists be recommended for Padma Awards.

Officials informed the CM that construction work worth Rs 4,160 crore has been undertaken by the Culture Department since 2023. Seventeen religious and cultural complexes and 20 museums are currently under development across the state.