Visits shrine on Chaitra Navratri; inaugurates Kudargarh Mahotsav, flags off awareness drives and unveils plans for major infrastructure boost
TFP Bureau, Surajpur, March 21,2026: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Saturday offered prayers at the revered Kudargarhi Mata Temple on the third day of Chaitra Navratri, praying for the happiness, prosperity and well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh.
The visit coincided with the inauguration of the Kudargarh Mahotsav, drawing large crowds of devotees from across the state and beyond. The Chief Minister performed traditional rituals at the temple परिसर, including worship of Hingulaj Mata and Jhagra Khad Devta, following age-old customs. He also offered chunari and sandalwood paste to the deity.
Temple Visit Steeped in Tradition and Faith
The पूजा rituals were conducted by local priest Ram Kumar Banchor, whose family has been serving the shrine for generations. Sai interacted with devotees and extended greetings on the occasion, highlighting the deep-rooted cultural and spiritual significance of Kudargarh Dham.
The temple, associated with strong local beliefs that prayers offered here are fulfilled, witnesses a surge of pilgrims during Navratri every year.
₹185 Crore Development Projects Unveiled
During his visit to Gram Panchayat Kudargarh in Odgi block, the Chief Minister announced a major development package worth ₹185 crore for Surajpur district. The projects include both completed works and new initiatives across sectors such as roads, buildings, drinking water, education, irrigation and urban infrastructure.
Out of the total, 52 projects worth ₹20 crore were inaugurated, while foundation stones were laid for 76 new works valued at ₹164 crore.
“These projects will accelerate development and improve basic infrastructure in the region,” Sai said, adding that the government is committed to balanced growth across all districts.
Focus on Kudargarh Dham Development
Emphasising the importance of religious tourism, the Chief Minister announced plans for the comprehensive development of Kudargarh Dham as a major centre of faith and tourism. He said a ropeway facility will soon be constructed to make access to the temple easier for devotees.
Additional infrastructure, including improved electricity supply, domes and visitor Facility will also be developed to enhance the pilgrimage experience.
A newly constructed, fully-equipped guest house at Kudargarh, built at a cost of around ₹3.09 crore, was also inaugurated to accommodate visitors and tourists.
Awareness Drives Flagged Off
The Chief Minister flagged off several awareness initiatives, including the ‘Suposhan Rath’ to promote nutrition among women and children, as well as campaigns on crime prevention and traffic safety.
He stressed the importance of awareness in ensuring better health outcomes and safer communities, noting that proper nutrition is essential for the well-being of women and children.
Link to Broader Development Goals
Sai said that with the blessings of the Goddess, the state is moving steadily on the path of development, including efforts to eliminate extremism and bring lasting peace in regions like Bastar.
He also highlighted ongoing welfare initiatives such as nutrition programmes involving ready-to-eat food distribution, which are benefiting women and children in the district.
Leaders Extend Greetings
Agriculture Minister Ram Vichar Netam extended greetings on Navratri, describing the festival as a symbol of renewed energy and prosperity. Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Rajwade emphasised the government’s focus on women empowerment and strengthening Anganwadi services.
Other dignitaries, including Ram Sevak Paikra, public representatives and senior officials, were present during the program
The Chief Minister’s visit, combining religious with developmental announcements, is being seen as a significant step towards boosting infrastructure, tourism and public welfare in Surajpur district while reinforcing the cultural importance of Kudargarh Dham.
