Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Dr Mohan Yadav on Sunday inaugurated the Shri-84 Mahadev Darshan Yatra 2026 through video conferencing, describing the pilgrimage as a sacred journey that would strengthen spiritual consciousness while preserving India's rich cultural heritage.

Addressing devotees gathered in Ujjain for the launch of the annual pilgrimage, the Chief Minister extended his heartfelt wishes to all participants and said the yatra was much more than a religious procession. He emphasised that it represents a profound opportunity for spiritual awakening, cultural preservation and social harmony.

Calling Ujjain the holy city of Lord Mahakal, CM Dr Yadav said the network of 84 ancient Shiva temples stands as a living symbol of devotion, penance and the timeless traditions of Sanatan Dharma.

'A journey that connects devotees with their roots': CM

The Chief Minister said India's civilisational values are rooted in the ideals of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) and Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah (may all be happy). He noted that Lord Shiva embodies compassion, harmony and public welfare, values that continue to inspire millions across the globe.

CM Dr Yadav observed that India's spiritual heritage is increasingly drawing global attention, making such initiatives important in promoting the country's cultural and religious legacy.

He described the 84 Mahadev Parikrama as an ancient and sacred tradition of Shiva worship, adding that it conveys the ideals of faith, self-discipline and spiritual devotion. Every temple associated with the pilgrimage, he said, bears testimony to Ujjain's glorious history and cultural richness.

The Chief Minister further stated that the yatra serves as a meaningful initiative to reconnect the younger generation with India's traditions, heritage and spiritual roots.

Religious tourism to boost local economy

Highlighting the broader impact of the pilgrimage, CM Dr Yadav said religious events of this scale not only strengthen faith but also generate significant economic activity.

He informed that women participating in the pilgrimage are being presented with complimentary red chunris, sarees, Rudraksha malas and Bilva saplings by the organising committee. The procession is also accompanied by the devotional music troupe of renowned bhajan singer Manish Tiwari, adding to the spiritual ambience of the event.

The Chief Minister said the holy month of Shravan reflects the deep devotion of people towards Lord Shiva. He expressed confidence that the pilgrimage would promote India's cultural traditions, strengthen religious tourism and reinforce social harmony across the state.

CM Dr Yadav added that religious tourism benefits hotels, transport operators, handicraft artisans and small traders, thereby contributing to the local economy. He said the state government is continuously upgrading infrastructure and visitor amenities at pilgrimage centres, with the long-term objective of developing Ujjain into a world-class destination for spiritual tourism.

'Our identity lies in our culture, values,' says CM

The Chief Minister said ensuring a safe, seamless and comfortable pilgrimage experience for devotees remains the government's foremost priority. He stressed that the administration and society would work together to ensure the successful conduct of the yatra, adding that public participation is the key to making such events grand and meaningful.

CM Dr Yadav concluded by urging young people to remain connected to India's culture, pilgrimage traditions and civilisational values. He said a society rooted in its heritage becomes stronger and more self-confident, while emphasising that the nation's identity is shaped by its culture and values. According to the Chief Minister, the Shri-84 Mahadev Darshan Yatra will inspire the youth with the ideals of service, discipline and patriotism while reinforcing the spiritual essence of India's ancient traditions.