Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the ‘UP State Pavilion’ (Uttar Pradesh Darshan Mandapam) at Maha Kumbh Nagar today. He also launched the ‘Kala Kumbh’ exhibition and flagged off special shuttle buses and Atal Seva electric buses to facilitate devotees attending the Maha Kumbh.
Speaking at the inaugural event of the ‘UP State Pavilion,’ the CM emphasized its role as a cultural hub for showcasing the state’s rich diversity to devotees. Earlier in the day, he inaugurated the ‘Maa Ki Rasoi,’ a community kitchen operated by Nandi Seva Sansthan at Swaroop Rani Nehru Hospital, Prayagraj.
UP State Pavilion: A Cultural Showcase
The Tourism Department has constructed the ‘UP State Pavilion’ on five acres in Sector 07 of the Maha Kumbh area. The pavilion hosts exhibitions based on various tourism circuits of Uttar Pradesh, including the Ramayana Circuit, Krishna-Braj Circuit, Mahabharat Circuit, and more. The venue features 12 thematic galleries highlighting the state’s cultural, religious, and historical importance.
In addition to the tourism circuits, stalls for the ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) scheme, the Rural Tourism Project, and the Silk Department are present. Visitors can also enjoy stalls offering traditional Uttar Pradesh dishes, Indian delicacies, and organic food. Selfie points across the pavilion have been created to attract visitors.
Kala Kumbh Exhibition: A Cultural Extravaganza
Adjacent to the UP State Pavilion, the CM inaugurated the ‘Kala Kumbh’ exhibition, organized by the Culture Department. This unique exhibition showcases Uttar Pradesh’s art, culture, archaeology, and historical records of Kumbh festivals.
Spread over five acres, the exhibition includes displays of ancient manuscripts, replicas of monuments, and significant archaeological findings. A key highlight is the section featuring government records from Kumbh festivals held between 1866 and 1954, offering rare insights into administrative measures, infrastructure development, and safety protocols over the years.
A cultural stage has been set up within the Kala Kumbh area to host traditional performances, adding vibrancy to the event.
Modern Transport Facilities for Devotees
To enhance transportation facilities for devotees attending the Maha Kumbh, the CM flagged off 100 new buses, including eco-friendly Atal Seva electric buses. These buses aim to provide seamless connectivity to the Kumbh area while promoting sustainable transport.
Inauguration of ‘Maa Ki Rasoi’
The CM expressed appreciation for the Nandi Seva Sansthan’s initiative, ‘Maa Ki Rasoi,’ which offers affordable meals to economically weaker sections. Priced at just ₹9, the meals include wholesome portions served in a hygienic environment. The CM inspected the kitchen facilities, personally served meals to attendees, and praised the initiative’s impact.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The event was graced by key officials, including Jal Shakti Minister Swatantra Dev Singh, Industrial Development Minister Nand Gopal Gupta ‘Nandi,’ and Minister of State for Transport (Independent Charge) Dayashankar Singh, along with senior administrative officers.
The inauguration marks a significant step in promoting Uttar Pradesh’s cultural heritage and providing modern amenities to pilgrims and visitors at the Maha Kumbh.
