Bhubaneswar: A grand ‘Shrimad Bhagavata Mahotsav’ was organised on Sunday at Terapanth Bhawan on Cuttack Road, Bhubaneswar, under the aegis of Dharma Jagaran Samiti, Odisha. The event witnessed the presence of Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to cultural revival through the propagation of the Bhagavata tradition.
Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said the government is dedicated to ensuring that the Shrimad Bhagavata becomes a part of every Odia household. He also announced plans to revive and reinstate ‘Bhagavata Tungis’—traditional village reading centers—across all villages in the state.
“The Bhagavata is not just a religious scripture, but a beacon of tradition, devotion, and eternal dharma. Its teachings connect the common man with divine deeds (Bhagavata Karya), making this Mahotsav deeply relevant to our times,” he said.
Majhi emphasised the role of youth in shaping society and suggested that regular recitation of the Bhagavata can guide them on a righteous path. He called upon attendees to read or listen to the Bhagavata daily, describing it as a moral and spiritual compass for a meaningful life.
He elaborated that the Bhagavata centers around five fundamental principles—Ishwara (God), Jiva (soul), Prakriti (nature), Kala (time), and Karma (action)—which together govern the universe. As per Sanatan tradition, listening to the Bhagavata before one’s last breath is considered a sacred final wish.
The Chief Minister also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for the ongoing cultural resurgence in India. Citing the slogan “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi” (Development along with Heritage), he pointed to key initiatives like the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, the spiritual corridors in Kashi and Ujjain, and the record-breaking Mahakumbh, as milestones in restoring India’s cultural pride.
Highlighting state-level efforts, CM Majhi said Odisha is witnessing a cultural renaissance. Financial assistance ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,01,000 has been provided to heritage Durga Mandaps for the first time. Similar aid is being extended for festivals like ‘Shitalasasthi’ and ‘Dhanuyatra,’ as well as for the renovation of temples and monasteries.
Padma Shri Baba Ballia, who also addressed the gathering, lauded the state government’s initiatives to preserve Odia identity and culture. He expressed hope that under the current leadership, the spiritual and literary heritage of Odisha—especially the Bhagavata tradition—will reach new heights.
Chandrakant Pradhan, former regional head of the Dharma Jagaran Samiti, delivered the welcome address, while Swami Brahmananda Saraswati, coordinator of the Samiti, proposed the vote of thanks.
