Chief Minister Mohan Yadav said that Chitrakoot is not merely a place of religious significance, but a vibrant centre of our eternal cultural, social, and national consciousness. It is the sacred land of penance of Paramdham Maryada Purushottam Lord Shri Ram, where he eternally resides with Mata Janaki and brother Lakhan. He expressed his spiritual joy at having visited the holy land of Chitrakoot on the auspicious occasion of Ramnavami. On Sunday, Chief Minister Dr. Yadav performed deepdaan during the Shri Ram Prakatya Parv and Chitrakoot Gaurav Diwas celebrations, and also offered prayers to Mother Mandakini.
Yadav, addressing the programme held at Bharat Ghat on the banks of the Mandakini River, said that today is a truly auspicious day. On this sacred ninth day, Chitrakoot—the city of Kamtanath Ji—is celebrating its Gaurav Diwas. The entire city is illuminated by the divine glow of countless lamps adorning the ghats of Chitrakoot. From Bharat Ghat to Kamadgiri Mountain, the Kamtanath Swami Temple, and every temple, home, street, and locality in Chitrakoot, the enchanting display of light is a sight to behold. He extended heartfelt greetings and best wishes to all the residents on the occasion of Ram Navami and Chitrakoot Gaurav Diwas.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav said that the Sadguru Seva Trust and Deendayal Shodh Sansthan in Chitrakoot are dedicated to realising the ideals and resolutions of Nanaji Deshmukh through their service to the underprivileged. He stated that, from 1 April, liquor prohibition has been enforced in 19 religious places across Madhya Pradesh to maintain the sanctity of these sites and prevent the spread of negative influences. Dr. Yadav highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation is steadily advancing on the path of development, and the decisions taken at the national level are being accepted with collective support. Referring to the recently passed Waqf Amendment Bill, he said that it was approved after thorough deliberation in Parliament and reflects the inclusive spirit of Indian democracy, aimed at the welfare of economically disadvantaged Muslim citizens. He called upon the people of Madhya Pradesh to take meaningful resolutions during this festive time and work together towards the state’s progress.
Yadav honored the artists on Chitrakoot Gaurav Diwas. On reaching the venue, Yadav was welcomed by presenting AngVastram. MP Satna Ganesh Singh said in his welcome address that it is a great fortune that the Chief Minister has arrived in the holy land of Chitrakoot to celebrate Shri Ram's appearance festival and Chitrakoot Gaurav Diwas.
On the occasion of Gaurav Diwas, the sacred city of Chitrakoot, including the Bharat Ghat on the banks of Maa Mandakini, was illuminated with the light of 11 lakh lamps. Citizens expressed their devotion and festive spirit by creating vibrant rangolis. Foreign tourists also took active part in the celebrations held for Chitrakoot Gaurav Diwas.