On the occasion of the 150th birth anniversary of India’s Iron Man, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Bharat Parv” is being celebrated with great enthusiasm from November 1 to November 15 at the Statue of Unity, Ekta Nagar, Gujarat. On the 11th day of the celebration, November 11, the Madhya Pradesh Day was inaugurated by Hon’ble Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel. The event was graced by Deputy Chief Minister Shri Jagdish Deora, Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla, and Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism, Culture, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, Shri Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, said that the purpose of this celebration is to uphold the spirit of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”, showcasing unity in diversity across the nation. Under Bharat Parv, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has set up an impressive theme pavilion spanning approximately 25 square meters, beautifully presenting the state’s tourism, culture, and handicraft heritage.
The pavilion features glimpses of Madhya Pradesh’s iconic destinations such as Sanchi, Khajuraho, Bhimbetka, Mandu, Orchha, Ujjain, and Omkareshwar, along with its renowned national parks like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench. Additionally, traditional handicrafts and handlooms such as Chanderi and Maheshwari fabrics, Bagh prints, Dhokra art, terracotta pottery, and Gond paintings are being displayed, reflecting the state’s artistic and cultural richness.
Shri Sheo Shekhar Shukla, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home, and Religious Trusts & Endowments, and Managing Director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board, said, “Bharat Parv is a beautiful celebration of India’s cultural unity and diversity. Madhya Pradesh is truly the ‘Heart of Incredible India,’ where every tradition, flavor, and art form reflects the soul of our nation. Through this event, we aim to connect visitors from across the country with the essence of Madhya Pradesh — its tourism, crafts, cuisine, and cultural vibrancy. Our effort is that visitors not only enjoy the taste and music of Madhya Pradesh but also experience its spiritual energy and vitality.”
Studio Kitchen Showcases the Flavours of Madhya Pradesh
On November 11, the Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) organized a special Studio Kitchen presentation featuring live demonstrations and tastings of traditional and regional dishes from the state, under the theme “Flavours from the Heart of India.”
Visitors relished a variety of regional delicacies such as Sannata, a tangy buttermilk-based drink from the Bundelkhand region; Kangni Dal Shorba, a traditional soup from Dindori; Thopa Bhutte Ki Kis, a gram flour-based delicacy from Chambal; Bedai Dumna Aloo, a popular breakfast from Sidhi; Matar Nimona with Plain Puri from Baghelkhand; and the renowned Kutki Kheer dessert from Shahdol. These dishes beautifully showcased the diverse geographical and cultural flavours of the state and were highly appreciated by visitors.
Magnificent Cultural Presentation – “Amrutasya Madhya Pradesh”
A grand dance performance titled “Amrutasya Madhya Pradesh” was presented by noted choreographer Maitryee Pahari and her troupe under the aegis of the Department of Culture. The performance captivated the audience by depicting the ancient civilization, devotion, love, and harmony with nature that define Madhya Pradesh.
The presentation began with the prehistoric cave art of Bhimbetka, moving through the artistic splendour of Khajuraho temples, the serenity of Sanchi Stupas, and the spiritual essence of Chitrakoot. The grandeur of Ujjain and Omkareshwar Jyotirlingas, the history of Gwalior Fort, the romance of Mandu, and the divine architecture of Orchha temples came alive on stage. The natural beauty of Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, and the marble rocks of Jabalpur were also artistically represented, portraying mankind’s connection with nature.
Performers adorned in traditional Maheshwari, Chanderi, and Bagh print attires highlighted the state’s textile and craft legacy. The performance concluded with the spiritually uplifting Narmada Aarti, taking the audience on a transcendental journey that left them mesmerized.
