BHOPAL: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav has said Orchha is being developed as a major tourism destination, with special emphasis on preserving its rich religious, cultural and architectural heritage.
Yadav made the remarks after inspecting ongoing development and conservation works at the Shri Ram Raja Lok in Orchha. He reviewed the progress of various projects and directed officials to complete the works within the stipulated timeframe while maintaining high standards of quality.
The Chief Minister said the Ram Raja Temple is an important symbol of Madhya Pradesh’s historical and cultural legacy. The temples, palaces and other heritage structures of Orchha, he said, reflect the architectural excellence and technological understanding of the era in which they were built.
Highlighting the unique design of the historic buildings, Yadav said many structures were designed in a manner that helped maintain comfortable temperatures despite the absence of modern air-conditioning systems. Such features, he said, demonstrate the advanced construction techniques of the period.
During his visit, Yadav inspected various facilities being developed within the Ram Raja Lok complex and interacted with shopkeepers and other establishment operators. He heard their concerns and suggestions and instructed officials to take appropriate steps to address their problems.
He also reviewed restoration and construction work at Jujhar Singh Mahal and visited Jahangir Mahal, where he observed the architectural features of the historic structure.
Focus on preservation of heritage
Architects accompanying the Chief Minister briefed him about the conservation of the historic **Sawan-Bhado pillars** located within the temple complex. The pillars are regarded as an important representation of Bundelkhand’s distinctive architectural tradition.
Officials told Yadav that the original character and historical significance of these structures were being taken into consideration while planning and executing the Ram Raja Lok development project. Special care is being taken to ensure that construction activity does not damage the ancient structures.
The surrounding area is also being developed and organised to make it more attractive and accessible for devotees while retaining the heritage character of the site.
Yadav said Orchha had once served as the capital of the Bundela rulers and its palaces and buildings represented an important chapter in the region’s history. The government, he said, was working to restore these structures and bring their architectural grandeur back to life.
He stressed that restoration work was being undertaken using materials and techniques consistent with those used historically. Skilled craftsmen are being engaged under the guidance of officials to ensure that the restored buildings retain their original appearance as far as possible.
Religious tourism to receive major push
The Chief Minister said the state was adopting a comprehensive approach to the development of religious and heritage destinations.
Referring to the impact of the Shri Mahakal Mahalok project in Ujjain, Yadav said the number of devotees visiting the city had increased significantly after its development, contributing to a substantial change in the local economy.
He said the government was pursuing similar integrated development of important pilgrimage destinations, including Orchha, Chitrakoot, Datia, Nalkheda and Pashupatinath in Mandsaur. The objective is to strengthen religious tourism while creating new employment and livelihood opportunities for local communities.
Yadav also highlighted the religious significance of Chitrakoot, where Lord Ram spent a considerable part of his 14-year exile. He said locations associated with Lord Krishna, including the Sandipani Ashram in Ujjain where Krishna is traditionally believed to have received his education, would also be developed as pilgrimage destinations.
The Chief Minister said preserving Madhya Pradesh’s historical and cultural heritage was a priority for the government. Various activities are being undertaken to connect younger generations with the state’s heritage and make them aware of its religious and cultural traditions.
He expressed confidence that the grand Ram Raja Lok project in Orchha would eventually emerge as a major pilgrimage destination for devotees from across India and abroad.
Senior BJP leader Shivprakash, MLA Hemant Khandelwal, Rajya Sabha MP Mahesh Kevat, former Home Minister Narottam Mishra, Niwari MLA Anil Jain, Rajesh Pateria, Sagar Divisional Commissioner Anil Suchari, IG Mithilesh Shukla and senior administrative and police officials were present during the inspection.