TFP Bureau, Raipur, July 9, 2025: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai unveiled a grand statue of Lord Buddha in Mainpat, Surguja district, underscoring Chhattisgarh’s deep-rooted Buddhist heritage. Addressing the gathering at the ceremony, the Chief Minister said that the state is treading the path of development inspired by Lord Buddha’s teachings of love, peace, and compassion.
He said, “The roots of Buddhist tradition are very deep in Chhattisgarh. With the installation of the Buddha statue, Mainpat will gain a new identity as a center of peace and inclusive culture.” The event, held at the hotel ground in Mainpat, witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Tibetan community and local residents.
The Chief Minister garlanded the statue, offered his prayers, and extended wishes for the prosperity and harmony of the people. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Tibetan community for their traditional welcome and hospitality.
Highlighting Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural confluence, Shri Sai cited the example of Sirpur, where Buddhist, Jain, and Sanatan traditions coexist in harmony. Referring to the 90th birthday of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, the Chief Minister called him a living embodiment of Buddha’s values. “His teachings continue to spread hope and positivity across the world,” he added, noting the global recognition he receives, including greetings from Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.
Calling Mainpat a treasure trove of natural beauty and cultural diversity, Shri Sai said the state government is committed to transforming the area into a major tourist destination. He announced ₹30 lakh in development works, including ₹10 lakh for constructing a CC road from Saila Resort to the Buddhist temple and ₹20 lakh for building a shed at the ancient Buddhist temple.
The Chief Minister also planted a sapling as a gesture of environmental commitment. The program witnessed a vibrant atmosphere as people greeted him holding the national flag and welcomed him with traditional Tibetan rituals.
The event was attended by Surguja MP Shri Chintamani Maharaj, Sitapur MLA Shri Ramkumar Toppo, Collector Shri Vilas Bhoskar, Settlement Officer Ms. Swang Yangso, Tibetan Cooperative Society President Shri Tamding Tsering, Monastery Head Lama Dubje, Lama Jinpa, and a large number of Tibetan community members.
