The 150th birth anniversary of the Iron Man of India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the “Bharat Parv” is being enthusiastically organised at the Statue of Unity, Kevadia (Gujarat) from November 1 to 15. As part of Bharat Parv 2025, Madhya Pradesh Day will be celebrated with great joy and enthusiasm on Tuesday, November 11, in the gracious presence of Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav. The event aims to showcase unity in diversity, in line with the spirit of “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat”.
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Culture, Tourism and Religious Trusts & Endowments, Dharmendra Bhav Singh Lodhi, informed that under Bharat Parv, the Madhya Pradesh Tourism Board has set up an attractive theme pavilion spread over about 25 square meters, showcasing the state’s rich tourism, cultural, and handicraft heritage in an impressive manner.
The pavilion features glimpses of historical and spiritual destinations such as Sanchi, Khajuraho, Bhimbetka, Mandu, Orchha, Ujjain, and Omkareshwar, along with renowned national parks like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench. In addition, it displays local crafts and handlooms of Madhya Pradesh, including Chanderi and Maheshwari fabrics, Bagh prints, Dhokra art, pottery, and Gond paintings.
Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism, Culture, Home and Religious Trusts & Endowments, Sheo Shekhar Shukla, said that Bharat Parv is a beautiful celebration of the country’s cultural unity and diversity. He stated, “Madhya Pradesh is the ‘Heart of India’, and every tradition, flavour and art form here reflects the soul of our nation. Through the presentation of the state’s tourism, handicrafts, cuisine and culture, we aim to connect visitors from across the country with the spirit of Incredible Madhya Pradesh. Our effort is that visitors not only enjoy the taste and music of Madhya Pradesh but also experience its spiritual energy and vibrant essence.”
The Taste of Madhya Pradesh at the Studio Kitchen
The Madhya Pradesh State Tourism Development Corporation (MPSTDC) will present a special Studio Kitchen showcase on November 11, featuring the live preparation and serving of traditional and regional dishes from across the state. The presentation is themed “Flavours from the Heart of India.”
Visitors will get to savour a wide variety of local delicacies, including ‘Sannata’, a tangy and spicy buttermilk-based drink from the Bundelkhand region; ‘Kangni Dal Shorba’, a traditional soup from Dindori; ‘Bhutte ki Kees’, a famous corn-based snack from Malwa; ‘Thopa’, a savoury gram flour delicacy from Chambal; ‘Bedai Dhumna Aloo’, a traditional breakfast from Sidhi; ‘Matar ka Nimona’ with Plain Puri, a popular dish from Baghelkhand; and ‘Kutki ki Kheer’, a signature dessert from Shahdol. Each of these dishes reflects the unique geographical and cultural flavours of Madhya Pradesh.
Cultural Presentation – “Amrutasya Madhya Pradesh”
The Department of Culture will present a grand dance performance titled “Amrutasya Madhya Pradesh”, choreographed by renowned dance director Maitreyee Pahadi and her troupe. This artistic presentation connects the audience to the rhythm of Madhya Pradesh’s ancient civilization, devotion, love and nature.
The dance narrative begins with the caves of Bhimbetka, symbolizing the dawn of human civilization. It then portrays, through graceful movements, the sculptural splendour of Khajuraho temples, the serenity of Sanchi stupas and the spiritual essence of Chitrakoot. The divinity of the Jyotirlingas of Ujjain and Omkareshwar, the historical grandeur of Gwalior Fort, the eternal love saga of Mandu, and the architectural magnificence of Orchha’s temples come alive on stage.
The connection between humans and nature is beautifully depicted through scenes inspired by the forests of Bandhavgarh, Kanha, and Pench and the marble rocks of Jabalpur. Artists adorned in traditional Maheshwari, Chanderi, and Bagh print costumes celebrate the state’s proud craft heritage on stage. The presentation culminates in a soulful depiction of Narmada Aarti, symbolizing the spiritual culmination of this enchanting journey.
