Chhattisgarh Rajyotsav 2026: Preparations for the ‘Rajyotsav’ (State Festival) in Chhattisgarh have intensified. This year, the event will be organized around the theme: “A Beautiful, Prosperous, and Naxal-free Chhattisgarh.” Priority will be given to local artists; however, in response to public demand, three artists from outside the state will also be invited. Union Home Minister Amit Shah will attend the event at the invitation of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.
Minister of Culture and Tourism, Rajesh Agrawal, stated that the convenience of the general public is being prioritized. Special attention is being directed toward logistics—ranging from transportation to the arrangements at the venue—to ensure that attendees face no difficulties.
Development of the ‘Ram Van Gaman Path’ (Ram’s Forest Journey Route) in Three Phases
Alongside preparations for the Rajyotsav, work is underway on a plan to develop the ‘Ram Van Gaman Path’ to promote religious tourism in the state. According to Minister Rajesh Agrawal, the development of this route will take place in three phases. Based on research, 31 locations have been identified, with plans to develop them in a phased manner over the next three years.
The first phase will focus on the development of 10 locations. These include: Rudreshwar Mahadev Temple in Rudri (Dhamtari); Shringi Rishi-Saptarshi Ashram in Nagri-Sihawa; Kharod; Ramaram and Chintamiter Temple (Sukma); Chandan Mihini, Ramgarh, and Sita Bengra (Surguja); Ramjharna (Raigarh); the Vishnu Temple in Rampur-Junwani (Kanker); the Chitrakot Shiva Temple; and Sitamadhi-Harchauka.
Enhanced Facilities at Religious Sites
Basic infrastructure and amenities will be expanded at the tourist sites selected under the ‘Ram Van Gaman Path’ project. The objective of this initiative is to make the journey more convenient for pilgrims, ascetics, and tourists alike. Under this initiative, plans are in place to develop facilities such as shelters for pilgrims, satsang bhavan (halls for spiritual gatherings), and Sita Rasoi (community kitchens).
These arrangements will provide better amenities for visitors to religious sites. Furthermore, it is expected to boost religious and cultural tourism within the state.
Focus on completing unfinished projects
Minister Rajesh Agrawal stated that under the ‘Ram Van Gaman Path’ (the route taken by Lord Ram during his exile), priority will be given to completing projects that were initiated during the previous government’s tenure but remained unfinished. Efforts will also be made to ensure better utilization of existing facilities.
He highlighted the development of significant sites such as Harchauka and Sitamarhi. The plan includes enhancing facilities at these locations to provide fresh momentum to religious tourism in Chhattisgarh.
In this way, through initiatives like the Rajyotsav (State Festival), the state is placing a strong emphasis on promoting its cultural identity, supporting local artists, and fostering religious tourism.
