TFP Bureau, Raigarh; September 7, 2024: The 39th Chakradhar Samaroh, a grand celebration of music and art, was inaugurated on Saturday in Raigarh by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai. During the opening ceremony of the 10-day festival, the Chief Minister paid tribute to Maharaj Chakradhar Singh, describing him as the “Music Emperor” who brought international recognition to Indian classical music.
“Through Maharaj Chakradhar’s contributions, Indian classical music has found a new identity on the global stage,” said Shri Sai. He emphasized his government’s commitment to preserving local art, culture, and traditional heritage, and announced the establishment of a Music College in Raigarh as part of this mission.
Shri Sai also acknowledged the achievements of his government, including initiatives that benefit farmers and the poor. He expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi for his support, noting that the state is implementing promises under the New Education Policy and other national programs. In particular, he highlighted the recent approval of housing for more than 8.5 lakh families under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.
The event also featured the release of a documentation booklet on Raigarh’s rock paintings and a booklet on Chakradhar Samaroh. Additionally, the Chief Minister unveiled a coffee table book on research in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts, presented by Shri Vinay Pandey, who also gifted a Brahmi-script nameplate to the Chief Minister.
Agriculture Development and Farmer Welfare Minister Shri Ramvichar Netam praised Maharaj Chakradhar for his contributions to the Raigarh Gharana, stating that his work elevated the status of art and music both in India and abroad. “Chakradhar’s support for local and classical artists has given new dimensions to art and culture,” he added.
Finance Minister Shri OP Choudhary, in his address, emphasized the scale and significance of this year’s festival, which features performances by eight eminent Padma Shri awardees. He also noted that the event has attracted renowned artists from across the country, underscoring its cultural importance.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Rajya Sabha MP Kunwar Devendra Pratap Singh, Raigarh MP Radheshyam Rathia, and members of the Raigarh royal family, along with a large number of local citizens.
The Chakradhar Samaroh, named after Maharaj Chakradhar Singh, is one of the most prestigious cultural events in Chhattisgarh, showcasing classical music, dance, and art.
