Madhavpur, Porbandar: Chief Minister Shri Bhupendrabhai Patel inaugurated the grand Madhavpur Mela on the auspicious eve of Ram Navami, marking the commencement of a vibrant cultural celebration in Madhavpur, Porbandar district. This annual fair commemorates the legendary marriage of Lord Krishna of Dwarka with Rukmaniji of Arunachal Pradesh, a union celebrated from Ram Navami onwards.

The inauguration ceremony, held amidst fervent devotion, was graced by the presence of Union Minister and Porbandar MP, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya. The Madhavpur Mela, elevated to a national-level festival in 2018 under the inspiration of Prime Minister Shri Narendrabhai Modi, symbolizes the confluence of diverse cultures and traditions.

On this occasion, Chief Minister Patel also inaugurated various pilgrim facilities constructed by the Gujarat Holy Pilgrimage Development Board at the Rukmani Temple premises, with an investment of Rs. 30 crores.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Patel emphasized the fair’s significance as a symbol of the harmonious blend of devotion and tradition, encompassing the divinity of Lord Ram’s birth and the grandeur of Lord Krishna’s marriage. “The Madhavpur fair is not merely a religious festival; it is a living embodiment of our unity, cultural heritage, and mutual love,” he stated.

He highlighted Madhavpur’s historical importance as a center of religious, spiritual, and cultural consciousness, bridging the cultural connection between Lord Krishna’s western region and Rukminiji’s northeastern India. He further emphasized how the fair embodies Prime Minister Modi’s vision of “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat,” showcasing the cultural exchange of different regions through art, cuisine, and handicrafts.

Chief Minister Patel also acknowledged the state government’s efforts in promoting tourism in the region, noting the strategic importance of Porbandar, Somnath, Dwarka, and Madhavpur. He announced significant investments in improving connectivity, including the expansion of Porbandar Airport and the development of the Somnath-Dwarka Expressway.

Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya expressed his gratitude to the Chief Minister, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing local issues. He announced a provision of Rs. 75 crore in the budget to combat salt control and tidal flooding in the Ghed area. He also praised the development of Mokarsagar Lake as a significant boost to water conservation, environment, and tourism, noting the Chief Minister’s pre-fair visit to the site.

Dr. Mandaviya further emphasized the growing prominence of Madhavpur as a religious tourism hub, crediting the Saurashtra Tamil Sangam program for strengthening cultural ties. He also envisioned Madhavpur as a prime destination for “Wed in India,” drawing inspiration from the historical divine marriage celebrated at the fair.

State Minister for Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Shri Mulubhai Bera, welcomed the attendees and expressed his delight at the increased awareness of the Madhavpur Mela, facilitated by the cultural performances and craft markets organized across Gujarat.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by MLA Shri Arjunbhai Modhwadia, MPs, Chief Secretary Shri Pankaj Joshi, Principal Secretary of Youth Services and Cultural Activities Shri M. Thennarsan, Principal Secretary of Tourism Shri Dr. Rajendra Kumar, district administration officials, and a large number of devotees and citizens.