Goa, not just about beaches but a divine land for self-realisation: Pramod Sawant
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Time of India
a day ago
- Time of India
From Ayodhya and Kashi to Mathura: CM Yogi targets holistic development in Mathura, visits 38 times in 8 years
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has shifted his fullest attention to Mathura, the sacred birthplace of Lord Krishna, making 38 visits in eight years—trailing only his efforts in Kashi (160) and Ayodhya (85). These repeated visits underscore a twofold mission: honouring Sanatan spiritual heritage and accelerating modern infrastructure growth across the Braj region. While Ayodhya and Kashi have already been transformed into monumental pilgrimage hubs, Mathura is now slated for a similar revival. With roads reinforced, pilgrimage paths beautified, and ancient sites restored alongside new visitor facilities, the state government is keen to establish Mathura as a global religious and cultural destination. Development journey: visits and devotion CM Yogi's 38 visits over eight years reflect a deep commitment to Mathura's spiritual prominence and its elevation to a modern pilgrimage hub. Each visit has been paired with concrete outputs—from inaugurating projects to surveying heritage restorations. Infrastructure meets heritage in Braj During the Janmashtami celebrations on 16 August 2025, CM Yogi inaugurated 118 development projects worth ₹646 crore across Mathura–Vrindavan, including road upgrades, parikrama path beautification, kund restorations, entrance gates, water conservation, and environmental protection. ₹30,000 crore master plan for Braj region Alongside project launches, CM unveiled an ambitious ₹30,000 crore master plan aimed at holistic development of the Braj region—linking pilgrimage sites such as Mathura, Vrindavan, Barsana, Gokul, and Govardhan, and reviving the spiritual ethos of the Dwapar era. Vision of modern pilgrimage cities Following the success of Kashi's Vishwanath Dham corridor and Ayodhya's grand Ram Temple, Mathura is poised for a metamorphosis that blends devotion with facility. CM emphasised that spiritual legacy can coexist with modern comforts, easing pilgrimage and attracting global visitors. Impact on tourism and identity The government's efforts are paying off—not only are devotees drawn in larger numbers, but local heritage feels revived. With upgraded infrastructure and revered spiritual sites, Mathura is emerging as both a cultural pride and an economic driver for religious tourism in India.
Time of India
16-07-2025
- Time of India
Kanwad yatris from Gurugram carry 800-1,000 kg Golden Shiva kanwad on wheels in Haridwar
In a striking display of devotion, Kanwad Yatris from Gurugram have undertaken a remarkable journey, carrying a massive 800-1,000 kg golden Shiva Kanwad on wheels during the ongoing Kanwar Yatra. The intricately designed Kanwad, crafted in Sonipat, is carrying approximately 40 litres of sacred Gangajal , drawing admiration from onlookers along the route. Sonu Rana, one of the Kanwariyas, shared, "This is a unique Kanwad, made in Sonipat, weighing around 800-1,000 kgs and holding about 40 litres of Gangajal. People are appreciating its grandeur. We will cover nearly 250 kilometres with it, showcasing our devotion to Lord Shiva ." Play Video Pause Skip Backward Skip Forward Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration 0:00 Loaded : 0% 0:00 Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 1x Playback Rate Chapters Chapters Descriptions descriptions off , selected Captions captions settings , opens captions settings dialog captions off , selected Audio Track Picture-in-Picture Fullscreen This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Text Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Caption Area Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Opacity Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Drop shadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Siemens Energy lidera com inovação Siemens Energy Saiba Mais Undo The Kanwar Yatra began on July 10. During the annual pilgrimage, Kanwariyas collect holy water from rivers and carry it over hundreds of kilometres to offer it at Lord Shiva temples. Devotees across the country observe fasts, perform rituals, and undertake the Yatra as a mark of devotion. The Uttarakhand State government has launched " Operation Kalanemi " against individuals impersonating Sanatanis and harming its reputation. Live Events Earlier, Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami stated that the state government will take strict action against those deceiving people, hiding their identities, and harming Sanatan under Operation Kalanemi. "Those who are deceiving people here, hiding their identity, hurting faith and belief, harming Sanatan, such people will be identified, a campaign will be run against such people, and those who are hurting religion and faith by hiding their reality will be caught, action will be taken against them.." Dhami told the reporters here. Earlier, CM Dhami gave strict instructions to the officials to launch Operation Kalanemi against impersonators who cheat people and hurt their sentiments in the name of Sanatan Dharma in Devbhoomi Uttarakhand. The Chief Minister said that many such cases have come to light in the state where anti-social elements are cheating people, especially women, by disguising themselves as saints. This is not only hurting the religious sentiments of the people, but also harming the image of social harmony and Sanatan tradition. He also said that just as the demon Kalanemi had tried to mislead by disguising himself as a saint, similarly, many "Kalanemi" are active in society today who are committing crimes in religious guise.
Time of India
18-06-2025
- Time of India
MP govt promotes rural tourism with new homestays partnerships and recognition for achievements
Bhopal: Highlighting the importance of rural tourism, Chief Minister Mohan Yadav on Wednesday said that tourism in villages generates local jobs for young people while showcasing cultural heritage, festivities, and local food internationally. He was addressing the 'Grameen Rang - Paryatan Sang' state event at the Kushabhau Thakre Auditorium. He said that expanding homestay network in the state exemplifies "Atithi Devo Bhava." The govt works alongside homestay operators, with support from Panchayat and Rural Development and Tribal Affairs departments, to ensure visitors receive outstanding service, he said. Yadav discussed India's pilgrimage heritage, observing that whilst foreign visitors seek recreational activities, Indians undertake spiritual journeys like the Char Dham Yatra, maintaining Sanatan cultural traditions and discovering regional customs. The CM explored the rural tourism display, engaged with district representatives, and participated in clay artistry. He introduced a microsite for the Responsible Tourism Mission to enhance rural tourism and digital homestay reservations, offering visitors detailed information about rural experiences. He also virtually launched 241 village homestays. *MoUs Signed to Promote Tourism* Four significant MoUs were executed in CM Yadav's presence. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Total AV 2025 – Save Up to 80% Off Antivirus Today Total AV - Tier 2 Install Now Undo MPTB partnered with Patanjali's Divya Yog Mandir Trust for rural development and tourism infrastructure, with Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla and Patanjali's scientific advisors as signatories. MPTB joined forces with Signify Innovations India Ltd. for energy-efficient lighting in tourist villages. Further collaborations were formed with Scope Global Skills University for tourism development and skill enhancement, and between MPTB and MPSTDC for digital integration of rural homestays. Yadav announced forthcoming helicopter services through the State Tourism Board. A wellness summit is scheduled to enhance tourist services, incorporating wildlife, religious, and healthcare tourism. He emphasised developing innovative promotional approaches to establish Madhya Pradesh as a worldwide tourism destination. Ten district collectors received recognition for achieving homestay targets. The CM commended representatives from 16 village panchayats and institutions for their contributions to rural tourism, interacting with homestay operators from various districts. Tourist visits increased by 526% in 2024 compared to 2020. Notable growth was seen at Kanha, Pench, and Bandhavgarh, amongst India's leading national parks. The state ranks first in tiger population and wildlife diversity. The 241 new homestays near tourist spots provide authentic rural experiences, including local cuisine and cultural activities. Madhya Pradesh targets establishing 1,000 homestays statewide. Tourism Minister Shri Dharmendra Bhavsingh Lodhi reported over 134.1 million tourist visits last year. Under CM Dr Yadav, 241 homestays were established across 121 villages. Villages from Panna (Madla), Niwari (Ladpura Khas), and Sidhi (Khas) earned national recognition as premier tourism villages. Principal Secretary Sheo Shekhar Shukla detailed the Responsible Tourism Mission's achievements. MP Tourism Corporation trained 10,000 women in hospitality. Self-help groups and artisans create handicrafts purchased by tourists and hotels nationwide. Tourist locations are receiving Divyang facilities, supported by CSR funds. CM Dr Yadav viewed exhibitions featuring traditional crafts including clay art, Mandna, Chitera, bamboo crafts, hand block printing, Gond paintings, and textiles, engaging with artisans.
