Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated Rangotsav 2025 in Barsana during his one-day visit to Mathura.

On this occasion, he declared that after the revitalisation of Kashi and Ayodhya, it is now time for the development of Mathura and Braj Bhoomi.

During the event, the chief minister offered prayers at Shri Ladli Ji Maharaj temple and signaled the commencement of the festival of colours with the traditional Laddumar Holi and a floral celebration.

In his address, he described the land of Braj as a symbol of devotion and faith, enriching Sanatan culture for over 5,000 years, where the divine presence of Shri Radha and Shri Krishna is felt in every particle.

The chief minister said that Uttar Pradesh was blessed to be home to Kashi, Ayodhya and Mathura – three sacred pilgrimage sites that stand as eternal symbols of Sanatan unity. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for establishing a new tradition of preservation of heritage and development, evident in the grand success of the recently concluded Prayagraj Maha Kumbh.

Chief Minister Yogi further remarked that those who questioned Sanatan dharma, spread misinformation and attempted to distort its essence have received a resounding response from its devoted followers.

Describing Holi as a festival of unity and harmony, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised that while the Maha Kumbh conveyed a message of unity to the world, Holi further strengthened it. He lauded the rich traditions of Sanatan dharma, highlighting the world-famous Lathmar Holi and Laddumar Holi of Barsana as embodiments of this cultural legacy.

Chief Minister Yogi announced that significant provisions have been made in this year’s Budget for the development of Braj Bhoomi, with projects worth crores of rupees linking Barsana to new growth opportunities. A ropeway service has been introduced in Barsana for the first time, he added.

He said, “After the successful completion of the Maha Kumbh, the focus shifted to the development of this sacred land, following the transformation of Kashi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Maa Vindhyavasini Dham.”

The chief minister assured that there would be no limits to the development of Mathura, Barsana and Braj Bhoomi. He expressed his devotion to Shri Radharani Ji during Holi, pledging to work tirelessly for the region’s progress.

Referring to the recent change of government in Delhi, Chief Minister Yogi reiterated the promise to rejuvenate the Yamuna river, ensuring it becomes as clean and uninterrupted as the Ganga.

During the event, Chief Minister Yogi honored saints and extended Holi and Rangotsav greetings to devotees from India and abroad. He emphasised that Barsana represents Brahma, Nandgaon symbolises Shiva and Govardhan embodies Vishnu, making Braj Bhoomi a source of blessings for every follower of Sanatan dharma. He asserted that the “double-engine government” guarantees security, development and prosperity.

On this auspicious occasion of Holi, the chief minister expressed confidence that the development of Braj Bhoomi would gain fresh momentum.

On this occasion, saints Vinod Baba, Ramsukh Das, Madhavdas Mouni Baba, Phalahari Baba, ministers Sandeep Singh, Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan, Rajya Sabha member Tejveer Singh, MLAs Meghshyam Singh, Puran Prakash, Rajesh Chaudhary, Yogesh Chaudhary, Om Prakash Singh, Mayor Vinod Agarwal, district panchayat chairman Kishan Chaudhary, Bharatiya Janata Party regional president Durvijay Singh, BJP leader Nirbhay Pandey, Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi, Barsana nagar panchayat chairperson Vijay Singh, Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad vice-president Shailaja Kant Mishra and others were present.

Geetanjali Sharma gave a special presentation on the ‘Holi of Flowers’ through dance with her group. 

CM reviews progress of development projects 

Mathura (PNS): During his one-day visit to Barsana, Mathura, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reviewed the progress of various regional development projects.

Uttar Pradesh Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad vice-president Shailaja Kant Mishra briefed the chief minister on development works worth approximately Rs 29 crore that have been completed.

The chief minister directed officials to ensure the timely and high-quality execution of ongoing projects in the Braj area.

Mishra highlighted several key projects in Barsana, including the Radharani Kitchen, facade lighting at the Shri Radharani temple, and the introduction of a ropeway facility based on the PPP model – a first for facilitating access to the temple.

Other developments include the Yatri Jan Suvidha Kendra near Govardhan drain, Priya Kund Peeli Pokhar facade lighting, and a PWD Guest house facilitation centre.

Praising these initiatives, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised that the Braj region is a major centre of Sanatan culture. He assured that no effort would be spared in accelerating its development.

The chief minister instructed officials to expedite the completion of all projects across the Braj region, including Barsana, focusing on maintaining high-quality standards and ensuring that pilgrims and locals reap maximum benefits.