Samrat Vikramaditya Embodied Courage, Generosity, Justice and Good Governance: CM Dr. Yadav

Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav remarked that Samrat Vikramaditya set examples of valour, generosity, justice, courage and good governance. For the first time in Bhopal, a grand historical play depicting the essence of his nearly two-thousand-year-old reign was performed, with actors employing horse regiments for dramatic live battle scenes. The realistic portrayal of wartime conditions brought history to life for the audience. Scenes depicting Samrat Vikramaditya’s coronation and other significant moments from his reign served as captivating highlights of the performance.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav, addressing the event at Lal Parade Ground on the second day of Madhya Pradesh’s 70th Foundation Day celebrations, stated that Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has emphasised development alongside heritage conservation, a mantra that drives Madhya Pradesh’s progress. He recounted the nation’s struggle with foreign attacks, the erosion of dignity under colonial rule and the revival that began with Samrat Vikramaditya’s rise to power. Even in his youth, Vikramaditya was devoted to public welfare. After receiving guidance from Acharya Chandragupta, he took charge of the administration.

Samrat Vikramaditya’s reign was marked by the liberation of citizens from debt, the historic establishment of Vikram Samvat, the implementation of just governance and the gathering of the legendary Navratnas, renowned scholars and poets. His concern for even the humblest members of society was highlighted.

Presented with creative imagination, the play depicted nightly patrols, Vikramaditya’s understanding of offenders’ redeeming qualities and his use of those traits for national welfare. The coronation scene, performed with grandeur, emphasised his unique leadership blessed by Mahakal Maharaj and Maa Harsiddhi Devi.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav praised all the artists, noting the cinematic style and scale of the production and felicitated the entire cast. Distinguished guests included Revenue Minister Shri Karan Singh Verma, Minister for Backward Classes Welfare Smt. Krishna Gaur, MLAs, and many senior officials, along with citizens.

Throughout the day, Lal Parade Ground was immersed in the colours of creation, culture and art. Folk performances, dance-dramas, music and exhibitions turned the capital into a hub of creative energy, merging tradition and innovation.

The evening showcased the magnificent and unique historical play ‘Samrat Vikramaditya’, staged by Ujjain’s Vishala Cultural and Welfare Society under the direction of Sanjeev Malviya. The grandeur was enhanced by the artists’ performances, elaborate costumes, powerful dialogues, impressive set design, and the striking use of camels, horses, elephants, palanquins, and buggies. Three stages featured modern graphics, ashram and jungle sets, and a stunning replica of the Mahakal temple, with 150 artists animating the epic.

The play aimed not only to entertain but also to remind citizens of the greatness of ancient Madhya Pradesh and draw inspiration from figures like Vikramaditya for contemporary welfare, governance, and development.

About the Maha Natya

Samrat Vikramaditya is regarded among India’s greatest and most revered ancient heroes, following divine incarnations like Shri Ram and Shri Krishna. His valor, relentless pursuit to liberate the nation from invaders, remarkable political accomplishments, successful military campaigns, exemplary legal system, and patronage of arts and literature stand as enduring symbols of justice and statesmanship, celebrated not only in India but also in neighboring and distant lands. Defeating the dreaded Shak invaders, Vikramaditya established the celebrated Vikram Samvat calendar, and tales of his wisdom and valour fill classics like Betal Pachisi and Sinhasan Battisi. His court included luminaries such as Kalidas and Varahmihir. The play traced his journey from birth to coronation.

Music, Divinity, and Artistic Splendor

Following the epic, acclaimed devotional singer Hansraj Raghuwanshi from Chandigarh mesmerised audiences with spiritual bhajans such as ‘Mera Bhola Hai Bhandari’, infusing the event with reverence and devotion.

Ahirai, Gangaur and Matki Dance Performances and Artisan Fair

Earlier in the afternoon, there were folk and tribal dances: Ahirai Lathi by Santosh Yadav and team (Sidhi), Moniya by Shishupal Singh and team (Tikamgarh), Ganagaur and Matki dances, Badhai (Sagart), traditional Ghasiabaja and Gond tribal Gunnursai.

One District-One Product’ Craft Fair

The ‘One District-One Product’ Craft Fair showcased unique, traditional products from districts across Madhya Pradesh, enabling visitors to purchase handicrafts directly from artisans, like jute products from Bhopal, organic pulses from Burhanpur, marble items from Jabalpur, handloom from Ashoknagar and tribal paintings from Mandla.