Indore (Madhya Pradesh): Hindu New Year Vikram Samvat 2082 was ushered in with traditional rituals with a celebration of Koti Suryaopasana under the Vikram Mahotsav, as part of the government’s initiative to honour the legacy of Emperor Vikramaditya. The event was held at Gandhi Hall, with a large crowd in attendance.
The programme was inaugurated by Water Resources Minister Tulsiram Silawat and Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav, who offered Ardha (a ritual offering) to Lord Surya. The event, part of a state-wide initiative as per the directions of Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, was attended by several prominent figures, including MLA Mahendra Hardia, collector Asheesh Singh, municipal commissioner Shivam Verma, and many others.
A large number of school students and head teachers also participated in the celebrations, with refreshments provided to the students from various schools of the city. A key highlight of the celebration was the staging of a grand play that showcased the life and glory of emperor Vikramaditya, the ruler who introduced the Vikram Samvat calendar.
The play, performed by Prasun Soni and the Rangrupiya theatre team, depicted the emperor’s bravery, justice and his monumental contributions to Indian culture. The audience responded with great enthusiasm, appreciating the historical depth and cultural pride portrayed in the performance.
In his address, Silawat emphasised the importance of progress, development and cultural heritage under the leadership of the Prime Minister and Chief Minister. He praised the state’s efforts to celebrate festivals with pride and unity highlighting India’s progress towards becoming a global leader.
Bhargav also spoke during the event, reinforcing the significance of Suryaopasana in Indian culture and the enduring legacy of Vikramaditya’s reign. He pointed out that the Vikram Samvat, initiated by the emperor, is still observed today not only in India but globally, serving as a guide for understanding the Panchang (calendar) and cultural practices aligned with India’s geographical diversity.
“The objective of this programme is to revive the glorious traditions of India and reconnect the people with their cultural heritage,” said Bhargav. The day began with devotees offering prayers to the Sun God. Various events were organised across the city, spreading enthusiasm and cultural pride.
Citizens were offered jaggery, coriander and shrikhand. The historic Rajwada resonated with Vedic chants and the entire area was adorned with saffron flags. Under the guidance of Sanskar Bharati and Lok Sanskriti Manch, mesmerising Odissi dance performances and synchronised Ramdhun recitals were held at an event in which prominent leaders, including ministers Kailash Vijayvargiya, Tulsi Silawat and MP Shankar Lalwani were present.
A pledge for water and environment conservation was also taken, promoting social awareness. The celebration beautifully blended tradition, culture and responsibility.
The Hindu New Year was celebrated
In Tilak Nagar under the guidance of the Poorvi Indore Utthan Parishad. The area was beautifully decorated and a large number of residents gathered to offer prayers to the sun. The celebrations included recital of devotional songs and traditional rituals.
At Chanakyapuri Chauraha, the Vitthal Rukmini Gaushala organised a grand Gudi Mahotsav, where a 51-feet tall Gudi was worshipped with Vedic rituals. Mayuresh Pingle, the head of the organisation, highlighted the importance of Gudi Padwa in Sanatan Dharma and how it marked the beginning of the Hindu New Year.
After the ceremony, around 11,000 laddoos were distributed among devotees as prasad. Maharashtrian families across the city celebrated the occasion by hoisting Gudis in their homes, preparing festive delicacies and purchasing new vehicles and jewellery as per tradition.
Due to the festival, the Sarafa market remained open. The Vitthal Rukmini organisation arranged for the public screening of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Mann Ki Baat”. The event witnessed a large gathering of youth and women. Eminent personalities like Anna Maharaj, Nitin Maharaj, BJP leaders Sumit Mishra, Malini Gaur, Akash Vijayvargiya and Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargav graced the celebrations.
