Leader highlights cultural revival, pilgrimage initiatives and heritage preservation; says spirituality and development go hand in hand
TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 14,2026: Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday attended the Pran-Pratishtha ceremony of Neelkantheshwar Mahadev Temple in Sirimkela village of Duldula block, Jashpur, offering prayers for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of citizens of Chhattisgarh.
Held a day before Maha Shivratri, the Chief Minister said the sacred ceremony symbolised “faith, devotion and cultural pride,” reflecting the deep spiritual roots of Sanatan tradition. He also announced the construction of a community hall in Sirimkela, stating that it would serve as a dedicated venue for social, cultural and family events.
Addressing devotees, the Chief Minister extended festival greetings and said being among local residents brought him “deep spiritual peace and joy.” He stressed that preserving traditions remains a key priority and noted that the government is promoting religious tourism through initiatives such as pilgrimages to Ayodhya Dham, inspired by ideals of devotion and service. He added that over 42,000 devotees have already benefited from such programmes.
Referring to the Ram temple, Sai said that after a wait of five centuries, the grand shrine in Ayodhya was completed under the leadership of Narendra Modi, with the sacred flag now flying atop the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Temple. He described it as a historic moment reflecting “eternal spiritual resolve” among devotees.
After offering prayers, the Chief Minister said he felt fortunate to receive blessings at the temple and noted that darshan of Neelkanth on Dussehra is considered especially auspicious. He also mentioned Madheshwar Mahadev, locally believed to be Asia’s largest natural Shivling, highlighting the district’s rich spiritual heritage. He added that during the holy month of Shravan, floral showers are traditionally offered to pilgrims at Bhoramdeo Temple.
Highlighting ongoing religious gatherings, Sai said the grand fair at Rajim Triveni Sangam in Rajim—often called the Prayag of the state—was witnessing large participation. He also noted that the historic festival in Bastar has gained national and international recognition, while development plans are underway for major Shakti Peeth sites.
During the programme, the Chief Minister planted saplings in the temple premises, emphasising that spirituality and environmental protection are complementary values. He expressed hope that divine blessings would guide the state toward peace, prosperity and accelerated development.
Among those present were Surguja Tribal Development Authority Vice-Chairperson Gomti Sai, MLA Yogeshwar Raju Sinha, former Rajya Sabha MP Ranvijay Singh Judev, District Panchayat Vice-President Shaurya Pratap Singh Judev, Municipal Vice-President Yash Pratap Singh Judev, Janpad Panchayat President Sushila Sai, and public representatives Krishna Rai, Pawan Sai, Bharat Singh, Arvind Prasad Sai, Kapil Deo Sai. Senior officials including IG Deepak Kumar Jha, Collector Rohit Vyas, SSP Lal Umed Singh, and DFO Shashi Kumar were also in attendance, along with a large gathering of devotees.
