Bhubaneswar: Bhubaneswar witnessed a spiritually vibrant gathering as Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi participated in the Shrimad Bhagavat Mahotsav, organized by Dharma Jagaran Samanvaya, Odisha, at Terapanth Bhavan on Cuttack Road. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted the importance of reviving the sacred Shrimad Bhagavat in every Odia household and establishing a Bhagavat Tungi in every village, underscoring the state government’s unwavering commitment to promoting devotion and cultural heritage across Odisha.
Majhi highlighted the crucial role today’s youth play in the overall development of society and asserted that reading the Bhagavat serves as a powerful means to guide them on the right path. “The Shrimad Bhagavat, with its rich traditions, devotion, and invaluable teachings of dharma, engages people in righteous and spiritual activities,” he stated, underscoring the festival’s significance for the social, moral, and spiritual upliftment of society.
The Chief Minister explained that the Shrimad Bhagavat outlines the governance of the universe through five fundamental elements—Ishwar, Jiva, Prakriti, Kala, and Karma. According to the ancient Sanatan tradition, listening to the Bhagavat before the final moments of life is regarded as the ultimate aspiration of every devout practitioner. He encouraged all attendees to make Bhagavat reading a daily practice, asserting that it steers life in a healthy religious and ethical direction.
Majhi further elaborated that festivals of this nature symbolize unity in society, reinforce devotion, respect, and core values. He noted that the experiences and teachings derived from such celebrations significantly contribute to the moral, religious, and social development of individuals.
In discussing a broader cultural revival, the Chief Minister remarked that since 2014, India has experienced a resurgence of interest in traditional culture and heritage, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He referenced major initiatives such as the construction of the Ayodhya Ram Mandir, the unprecedented participation of 68 crore devotees in the Maha Kumbh, and the development of the Kashi Vishwanath and Mahakal corridors as evidence of this cultural renaissance. “Today, the youth are leading this spiritual awakening, and every Hindu proudly identifies as a follower of the Sanatan dharma,” he added.
Majhi also pointed out that the Odisha government has actively worked to preserve and promote Odia culture and traditions since its inception. Recently, financial assistance ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹1,01,000 was provided to all old and historic Durga Puja pandals in the state, marking a first-of-its-kind initiative in Odisha. Whether for Shital Shashti Yatra or Dhanuyatra, the government is extending financial support for temple security and beautification, with plans to continue these efforts in the future.
During the event, Padma Baba Balia expressed gratitude to the state government and Chief Minister for their dedicated efforts in preserving Odia identity. He urged participants to ensure that the teachings of the Shrimad Bhagavat reach every household in Odisha. He noted that under the Chief Minister’s leadership, the Odia language, culture, literature, and Bhagavat consciousness would be revitalized throughout the state.
The program also featured welcome remarks by Chandrakant Pradhan, Odisha (Purv) Prant head of the Dharma Jagaran Samiti, and a vote of thanks delivered by Swami Brahmanand Saraswati, the Samiti’s coordinator, highlighting the collective effort in promoting spiritual education and social cohesion through this Mahotsav.
