MP: Mohan Govt's Initiative: Now, the Saga of Emperor Vikramaditya's Valor Will Resound in Varanasi
In Madhya Pradesh, the Mohan government is working continuously to establish the Indian knowledge tradition and its glorious cultural heritage on the global stage.
As part of the prestigious "Vikramotsav-2026" campaign, a grand staging of the "Mahanatya Samrat Vikramaditya" (Grand Play on Emperor Vikramaditya) is being organized in the salvation-bestowing city of Varanasi from April 3 to 5, 2026. It is a testament to Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav's keen interest and visionary thinking that this cultural journey—which began in Ujjain, the city of Baba Mahakal—is now reaching Kashi, the city of Baba Vishwanath.
A Grand Confluence of Cultural Nationalism
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that Emperor Vikramaditya was not merely a ruler, but a living symbol of Indian justice, valor, and good governance. This grand theatrical production in Varanasi will introduce the masses to that magnificent era—the time when Emperor Vikramaditya, approximately 2,100 years ago, completely annihilated the invading Shakas and instituted the 'Vikram Samvat.' This calendar era stands as one of the world's most ancient systems of time-reckoning, reflecting the excellence of Indian science and astronomy.
A Portrayal of Unparalleled Valor and Justice
Through the three-day Vikramaditya Mahanatya being held in Varanasi, the saga of how Emperor Vikramaditya earned the titles of 'Shakari' (Destroyer of Shakas) and 'Sahasanka' (The Valiant) will be brought to life. The play will depict how a benevolent king, dedicated to public welfare, utilized funds from his own royal treasury to liberate his subjects from debt, thereby establishing an empire where neither poverty nor sorrow existed.
A new milestone
Furthermore, the resolve to build a 'Glorious India' (Shreshtha Bharat)—manifested through the Emperor's 'Navratna' (Nine Jewels) tradition, which included great scholars such as Kalidasa, Varahamihira, and Dhanvantari—will be prominently showcased. Following its successful staging at Delhi's Red Fort and the subsequent commendation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, this performance in Varanasi is set to mark a new milestone.
Organized jointly by the Maharaja Vikramaditya Research Institute and the Department of Culture, Madhya Pradesh, this grand theatrical production in Varanasi will not only foster cultural exchange but also further strengthen the bonds of national unity. In alignment with the vision of CM Dr. Yadav, this event represents a significant chapter of 'cultural renaissance' on the path toward a 'Developed India' (Viksit Bharat).
