Chhattisgarh Undertaking Holistic Development of Pilgrimage Sites: CM Vishnu Deo Sai

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai accompanied by his wife Kaushalya Devi Sai attended concluding ceremony of Shiv Mahapuran Katha in Bhilai -Photo Credit-CG/PR

Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has said that the state government is carrying out the phased development of major pilgrimage sites across the state. As part of this initiative, an amount of ₹146 crore has been sanctioned for the holistic development of the historic Bhoramdeo temple complex in Kawardha. Additionally, a dedicated Shakti Corridor scheme has been launched for the upgradation of five major Shakti Peeths in the state.

CM Sai participated in the concluding ceremony of the Shiv Mahapuran Katha in Bhilai on Tuesday August 5, 2025 , along with his wife Kaushalya Devi Sai and other family members. On this auspicious occasion, he prayed for the prosperity, happiness, and well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh.

Chief Minister Sai extended warm greetings of the holy Shravan month to the organising committee and the devotees. He also welcomed and felicitated the renowned Kathavachak Pt. Shri Pradeep Mishra and the saints associated with the Vyaspeeth on behalf of the 3 crore citizens of Chhattisgarh.

CM Sai called it a great fortune to be part of the concluding day of the divine katha. He stated that the entire land of Chhattisgarh is immersed in the spirit of Lord Shiva. “In my native village Bagiya, Lord Phaleshwar Mahadev resides. Baba Bhoramdeo in Kawardha, Kuleshwar Mahadev in Rajim, Lakshmaneshwar Mahadev in Kharaud, and Madheshwar Mahadev in Jashpur — the latter being regarded as the world’s largest natural Shiva Lingam — are all divine symbols of our heritage,” he added.

He further stated that the land of Chhattisgarh is not only blessed by Lord Shiva but also graced by the boundless blessings of Goddess Adi Shakti. “Temples such as Maa Danteshwari in Dantewada, Maa Bamleshwari in Dongargarh, Maa Mahamaya in Ratanpur, and Maa Chandrahasini in Chandrapur are central to the faith of millions,” the CM said.

He also highlighted the significance of Chhattisgarh in the Ramayana, mentioning that Lord Shri Ram had spent 10 years of his exile in Chhattisgarh. “It was on this sacred land that he accepted the half-eaten berries of Mata Shabari, giving eternal recognition to selfless devotion. Chhattisgarh is also considered the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram,” CM Sai remarked.

Referring to the Shri Ramlala Darshan Yojana, he said that over 22,000 devotees have already availed the opportunity to visit Ayodhya Dham and seek the blessings of Lord Ram. “This scheme is becoming a powerful medium for deepening the spiritual connection of devotees with Lord Shri Ram,” he added.

The event was graced by the presence of MLAs Domanlal Korsewada, Gajendra Yadav, Rikesh Sen, along with several other public representatives, dignitaries, and a large number of devotees.