TFP Bureau, Raipur, July 16, 2025: The Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha premises witnessed a rare blend of democratic dignity and devotional splendor on Wednesday as the “Excellence Award Ceremony” concluded with high honors and a captivating cultural performance. The ceremony, held to mark the Silver Jubilee Year of the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, was graced by Governor Shri Ramen Deka, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, and Leader of Opposition Dr. Charandas Mahant.
Delivering the keynote address, Governor Deka emphasized the need for elected representatives to “rise above political commitments and prioritize public interest and welfare.” He congratulated this year’s awardees, including MLAs Smt. Bhavna Bohra and Shri Lakheshwar Baghel, who were honored as Outstanding MLAs of 2024, and journalists Dr. Rakesh Kumar Pandey (Dainik Bhaskar), Shri Yogesh Mishra (Sudarshan News), and Shri Vishwaprakash Purena for Excellence in Parliamentary Reporting.
“The Vidhan Sabha is not merely a platform for legislation but a temple of democracy,” said Governor Deka. “It is heartening to see a tradition here where not just MLAs, but also journalists, are recognized for their contributions in strengthening transparency and accountability.”
Speaker Dr. Raman Singh, presiding over the function, highlighted the dynamic nature of the state assembly, calling it a “lively house of three crore voices.” He acknowledged the challenges in selecting awardees among 90 deserving MLAs and praised the assembly’s continuing tradition of meaningful debate and cooperative politics.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai remarked that the “Excellence Award Ceremony” is an occasion of pride and inspiration for the state. He applauded the unique culture of the Chhattisgarh Vidhan Sabha, which has earned national recognition for its self-discipline and decorum. “Our assembly is the only one in the country where any MLA entering the sanctum sanctorum is automatically marked present — a mark of mutual respect and order,” he noted.
Leader of Opposition Dr. Charandas Mahant also lauded the awardees and credited Speaker Dr. Raman Singh’s leadership for fostering greater coordination between the ruling and opposition benches.
Adding a cultural flourish to the evening, renowned folk singer Maithili Thakur enchanted the audience with soul-stirring bhajans dedicated to Lord Shri Ram. As part of the Silver Jubilee Cultural Evening, Thakur’s melodious renditions of devotional songs such as “Shri Ram ko dekhkar Jagat Janani Nandani”, “Mere jhopdi ke bhaag khul jaayenge”, and “Mere Ram ki kripa se sab kaam ho raha hai” created an atmosphere of spiritual ecstasy.
Speaker Dr. Raman Singh and Chief Minister Sai honored Ms. Thakur on stage with a shawl, coconut, and memento in appreciation of her performance, which left the audience emotionally moved and immersed in bhakti.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kedar Kashyap, MPs Jyotsna Mahant, Brijmohan Agrawal, Vijay Baghel, and a host of other MLAs, ministers, and dignitaries. A special booklet focusing on the orientation of the newly elected MLAs of the Sixth Assembly was also released during the program.
As the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly marks 25 years of democratic journey, the Excellence Award Ceremony served not only as a tribute to individual achievement but also as a celebration of collective responsibility, culture, and public service.
