The upcoming Dussehra festival holds special significance for Madhya Pradesh as it will be the first after the establishment of the Lord Ram temple in Ayodhya. In light of this, the Madhya Pradesh government has planned grand celebrations across the state to mark the occasion.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has called upon district administrations to ensure proper arrangements for the Navratri festival, beginning on October 3, and for Dussehra.
He emphasised the importance of the occasion, stating that this year's Dussehra would be particularly joyous due to its association with the newly constructed Ram temple.
The chief minister expressed his hope for the blessings of Goddess Durga during this time. He remarked, "May Goddess Mother, who embodies power, bless us all so that we may perform good deeds and walk on the righteous path."
The connection to Lord Ram’s temple, which holds deep spiritual significance for many, is expected to add an extra layer of meaning and joy to the celebrations.
Yadav further highlighted the importance of peace and harmony during the festival, underscoring the state's commitment to preserving the values of ancient traditions.
He urged district administrations to ensure that all religious sites are prepared for the festivities and emphasised that celebrations should reflect the age-old traditions that people hold dear.
In his directives, the chief minister also focused on security measures, instructing the police to take strict actions against any anti-social elements that might attempt to disrupt the peace.
He assured that authorities would not tolerate any form of disturbance, particularly around religious locations, during the festival season. The administration aims to maintain a spirit of unity and brotherhood during the celebrations, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the festival in a secure environment.
The state has also outlined specific plans for several prominent religious sites where large-scale events will be held. Some of the key locations include the Sharda Temple in Maihar, the Pitambara Peeth in Datia, the Baglamukhi Mata Temple in Nalkheda, and the Harsiddhi Mata Temple in Ujjain, among others. These places are significant pilgrimage sites, and the government aims to ensure that the faithful can worship without inconvenience.
In addition to security, local authorities have been tasked with making sure that basic amenities such as electricity and drinking water are available in abundance. The police department will coordinate with local officials to ensure that all routes to these temples are safe and secure for devotees.
The government’s attention to detail extends beyond just the major temples. Chief Minister Yadav also emphasised the importance of ensuring that all smaller religious sites throughout the state are similarly prepared. Adequate facilities, along with the safety and security of the public, are the top priorities during this festive season.
The chief minister also spoke of ongoing construction projects in several ‘Devi Lokas,’ sacred spaces dedicated to Goddess worship. These projects are aimed at enhancing the religious experience for visitors and ensuring that the facilities are capable of handling the large crowds expected during Navratri and Dussehra.