Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that the Bhagoria festival will now be celebrated as a state-level event starting this year. Speaking at the Tribal Devlok Mahotsav at his official residence, he described Bhagoria as a joyful festival that brings people closer to nature with the colours of Phalgun.
Yadav assured that the government will preserve the festive spirit of Bhagoria and promote it at a larger scale. The festival, which marks the arrival of spring, is a major celebration among tribal communities and attracts visitors from across India and beyond.
The Chief Minister also confirmed that he will personally participate in the celebrations.
In addition to Bhagoria, the government plans to support the development of tribal places of worship and celebrate the Korku festival at the state level. Yadav emphasised that all tribal festivals will now receive official recognition and support.
He highlighted the contributions of tribal heroes in India's freedom struggle and their efforts to protect nature, land, and forests. He said the government is committed to preserving their rich cultural heritage, including their unique customs, rituals, and worship traditions.
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Praising the tribal way of life, Yadav noted that their culture teaches valuable lessons about harmony and enjoying life. He honored tribal leaders such as Tantya Mama, Rani Durgavati, Amar Shaheed Raghunath Shah, and Kunwar Shankar Shah, acknowledging their role in shaping Indian culture over centuries.
The Chief Minister also appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s efforts toward tribal welfare. He mentioned initiatives like the Prime Minister Jan-Man Yojana and Dharti Aba Janjati Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, which focus on improving infrastructure, education, health, and livelihoods in tribal areas. The state government is also working for tribal empowerment through the PESA Act.
During the event, Yadav distributed Rs 5,000 cheques as incentives to tribal dancers and musicians who performed at the festival. Additionally, representatives of PESA gram panchayats received Rs 3,000 each to help protect tribal temples, sacred symbols, and places of worship.
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