Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai visited the ancient heritage sites of Ramgarh during the closing ceremony of Ramgarh Mahotsav 2026, describing the region as a unique confluence of culture, history, literature and tourism. He also planted a Rudraksh sapling under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 3.0’ campaign, urging people to preserve both Chhattisgarh’s rich heritage and its natural environment.
TFP Bureau, Raipur, June 30,2026: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Monday highlighted Ramgarh’s immense historical, cultural and tourism potential while attending the closing ceremony of the two-day Ramgarh Mahotsav-2026 in Surguja district. During his visit, he explored the region’s ancient archaeological sites and called for preserving Chhattisgarh’s cultural heritage alongside protecting the environment.
The Chief Minister visited the historic Sitabengra Cave, regarded as the world’s oldest theatre, where he reviewed its architectural and historical significance. He also inspected the ancient inscriptions and mural paintings at the Jogimara Cave and visited the natural rock tunnel known as Hathipol, one of the region’s major tourist attractions. Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam, Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal, public representatives and senior officials accompanied him.
Addressing the gathering, Sai described Ramgarh as a living symbol of Surguja’s rich cultural consciousness, artistic excellence and glorious history. He said the heritage site represents a rare confluence of culture, literature, history and tourism, giving Chhattisgarh a distinctive place on the global cultural map.
He said the state possesses not only abundant natural resources but also a priceless archaeological and cultural legacy that deserves global recognition. Preserving and promoting heritage sites such as Ramgarh, he added, is a collective responsibility and an important step towards generating tourism-based employment and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The Chief Minister noted that the Sitabengra and Jogimara caves are among India’s most significant archaeological treasures. The natural amphitheatre inside Sitabengra Cave, ancient inscriptions and mural paintings dating back to the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, along with local traditions associating the site with poet Kalidasa’s Meghadutam and the Ramayana era, make Ramgarh an important destination for historians, pilgrims and tourists alike.
Later, at the Ram Vatika Forest Rest House, Sai offered prayers before the statue of Lord Shri Ram and sought blessings for the peace, prosperity and well-being of the people of Chhattisgarh. He also planted a Rudraksh sapling under the ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam 3.0’ campaign, describing the initiative as a symbol of reverence for both motherhood and nature.
Calling upon citizens to actively participate in environmental conservation, the Chief Minister urged people to plant as many saplings as possible in the name of their mothers and take responsibility for protecting them. He said tree plantation is essential for maintaining ecological balance and addressing the growing challenges of climate change.
Referring to the life of Lord Shri Ram, Sai said his ideals of truth, sacrifice, righteousness and devotion to duty continue to inspire society. He appealed to people to follow these values and contribute to nation-building with a spirit of harmony, service and commitment.
Tourism and Culture Minister Rajesh Agrawal, Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam, Lundra MLA Prabodh Minj, Sitapur MLA Ramkumar Toppo, other public representatives and senior administrative officials were present during the programme.
