As the festival of colours, Holi, approaches, Madhya Pradesh gears up to showcase its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance through vibrant celebrations
As the festival of colours approaches, Madhya Pradesh gears up to showcase its rich cultural heritage and spiritual significance through vibrant Holi celebrations. Nestled amidst the land of massive religious importance, Madhya Pradesh, boasting two jyotirlingas in Mahakal Lok, Ujjain, and Ekatm Dham (Statue of Oneness), Omkareshwar, promises an enchanting experience for devotees and travelers alike. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board encourages the local traditional and cultural values of the state by empowering local communities.
Known for its fervent enthusiasm in celebrating festivals, Madhya Pradesh becomes an alluring destination during Holi, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its vivid culture and warm hospitality. The Bhagoriya tradition of Madhya Pradesh possesses immense cultural value, where an array of sacred rituals is performed by the Bhil tribe of the state during the harvest period. At Mahakal Lok, devotees gather from across the nation to revel in the festivity amid the divine aura of Lord Shiva's abode where the first Holika Dahan of MP takes place. Adding to the allure, a grand Maha Aarti takes place at Sethani Ghat in Narmadapuram district, where the sacred waters of the Narmada River flow, offering a spiritual ambiance to the colorful festivities. Meanwhile, in Chhindwara, the Meghnad Fair sees different Maharashtrian communities coming together to apply colors to Lord Mahadev, symbolizing unity and harmony.
Indore Gair welcomes lakhs of visitors each year on Rang Panchami at the Rajwada Palace where sheer joy and colors awash the streets with majestic water cannons going on ever since the Holkar Dynasty. Bullock carts are loaded with herbal colors as people smear each other with gulal and joy. Not to be missed is the passionate celebration of Holi in the Bundelkhand region, particularly at the Ram Raja Darbar of Orchha, where the festival is marked with fervor and reverence. In the city of Gwalior, music enthusiasts can look forward to an electrifying performance by the Saregama Music Group at Shinde Ki Chhawni Mall, adding an extra layer of entertainment to the festive spirit.
Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department and Managing Director, MP Tourism Board Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla (IAS) highlighted that ‘Madhya Pradesh stands as a beacon of cultural diversity and spiritual heritage, inviting everyone to partake in its mesmerizing Holi celebrations, creating memories to cherish for a lifetime. The Heart of Incredible India celebrates each festival with a blend of local customs and personal touch.’
In conclusion, Madhya Pradesh stands as a beacon of cultural diversity and spiritual heritage, inviting everyone to partake in its mesmerizing Holi celebrations. Throughout the state, from the sacred Mahakal Lok to the bustling streets of Indore, the fervor and enthusiasm of the festivities are palpable. Whether witnessing the first Holika Dahan at Mahakal Lok, participating in the Bhagoriya traditions of the Bhil tribe, or experiencing the unity and harmony symbolized by the Meghnad Fair in Chhindwara, every corner of Madhya Pradesh resonates with the joy of Holi.
Moreover, the state's commitment to preserving and promoting its traditional values shines through initiatives led by the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, empowering local communities and showcasing the region's unique cultural tapestry. As visitors flock to witness the grandeur of Rang Panchami at the Rajwada Palace or the electrifying performances in Gwalior, it becomes evident that Madhya Pradesh celebrates Holi with a blend of ancient customs and modern festivities.
As Principal Secretary Tourism and Culture Department, Mr. Sheo Shekhar Shukla, aptly puts it, these celebrations create memories to cherish for a lifetime. So, this Holi, immerse yourself in the vibrant colors of Madhya Pradesh, where every hue tells a story, every tradition echoes history, and every moment is filled with the spirit of joy and togetherness.
(The writer is Principal Secretary, Tourism Department, Madhya Pradesh and MD of the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board; views are personal)
