The Madhya Pradesh Day was celebrated with grandeur at the ongoing Bharat Parv 2025 at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, marking the 150th birth anniversary of India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The event, part of the nationwide celebrations from November 1 to 15, was inaugurated by Governor Mangubhai Patel, in the presence of Deputy Chief Ministers Jagdish Deora and Rajendra Shukla, and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi.
In his address, Lodhi highlighted that the celebration embodies the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” emphasizing India’s unity in diversity. The Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has set up an impressive 25-square-meter theme pavilion, beautifully showcasing the state’s tourism, culture, and handicrafts.
The pavilion presents captivating glimpses of Sanchi, Khajuraho, Bhimbetka, Mandu, Orchha, Ujjain, and Omkareshwar, along with the famed national parks of Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench. Traditional art forms such as Chanderi and Maheshwari fabrics, Bagh prints, Dhokra art, terracotta pottery, and Gond paintings reflect the artistic and cultural vibrancy of the state.
Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary (Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments) and Managing Director, MP Tourism Board, remarked, “Bharat Parv is a celebration of India’s cultural unity and diversity. Madhya Pradesh truly represents the ‘Heart of Incredible India,’ where every tradition, flavor, and art form echoes the soul of the nation. Our aim is to let visitors experience the spirit, cuisine, and creativity that define Madhya Pradesh.”
Studio Kitchen Showcases Flavours from the Heart of India
The Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) organized a Studio Kitchen presentation on the theme “Flavours from the Heart of India.” Visitors enjoyed traditional dishes such as Sannata (Bundelkhand), Kangni Dal Shorba (Dindori), Thopa Bhutte Ki Kis (Chambal), Bedai Dumna Aloo (Sidhi), Matar Nimona with Plain Puri (Baghelkhand), and the signature dessert Kutki Kheer (Shahdol). The live demonstrations drew enthusiastic crowds, offering a sensory journey through Madhya Pradesh’s diverse culinary map.
Cultural Spectacle – “Amrutasya Madhya Pradesh”
The cultural highlight of the day was a mesmerizing dance presentation titled “Amrutasya Madhya Pradesh” choreographed by Maitryee Pahari and her troupe under the Department of Culture. The performance beautifully narrated the state’s ancient civilization, spirituality, and harmony with nature — from Bhimbetka’s prehistoric art to the temples of Khajuraho, Sanchi’s Buddhist heritage, Chitrakoot’s spirituality, and the architectural marvels of Mandu, Gwalior, and Orchha.
Artists draped in Maheshwari, Chanderi, and Bagh print ensembles showcased the textile legacy of the state. The presentation concluded with a serene Narmada Aarti, leaving the audience captivated by the cultural and spiritual essence of Madhya Pradesh.
