Ujjain, the ancient city of temples in Madhya Pradesh, is gearing up for a spectacular month-long celebration honoring Emperor Vikramaditya. The Vikram Utsav, a mega event blending religion, culture, education, and commerce, kicks off on February 15 and runs through March 19.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav chaired a high-level review meeting on Tuesday, greenlighting a comprehensive schedule packed with diverse activities. This grand festival aims to revive the legacy of the legendary ruler whose name echoes through India’s historical corridors.
The inauguration on February 15 coincides with Maha Shivratri, featuring vibrant fairs, a majestic Kalash Yatra procession, and a captivating musical presentation titled ‘Shivoham’ by renowned artists. From February 16 to 25, the Vikram Theatre Festival will showcase national and international plays centered on historical and cultural themes, drawing top theater troupes from across the globe.
History buffs have plenty in store from February 26 to 28 with an International History Conference, a Puppet Festival, and research seminars. A intellectual conclave on Vikramaditya’s justice system and governance model follows from February 28 to March 1. Poetry lovers await the All-India Kavi Sammelan on March 7, bringing together the nation’s finest poets.
Other highlights include an International Mythological Film Festival with entries from over 20 countries, Vedic Antakshari competitions, and sunrise worship rituals at Ram Ghat and Datt Akhada during Gudi Padwa. This fusion of faith, heritage, and discourse promises an unforgettable experience.
The finale on March 19, celebrated as ‘Ujjayini Gourav Diwas’ on the occasion of Varsha Pratipada, unfolds along the sacred Shipra River. Expect the conferment of Samrat Vikramaditya Awards, release of Vikram Panchang 2082-83, launch of the second edition of ‘Arsha Bharat’, and a mesmerizing dance-drama ‘Mahadev Ki Nadi Katha’.
During the review, CM Yadav instructed officials to comprehensively highlight every facet of Vikramaditya’s personality and achievements. He stressed the need to educate the youth about his contributions to Indian knowledge traditions, cultural continuity, scientific outlook, calendar systems, astronomy, and administrative prowess. Educational institutions like science colleges, engineering schools, and polytechnics must integrate special programs to spotlight these aspects, ensuring the event resonates with modern audiences while honoring ancient glory.
