“Vikramaditya’s Legacy Glorifies India”: VP Jagdeep Dhankhar

New Delhi: Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar on Saturday lauded the legendary Emperor Vikramaditya, calling him a timeless symbol of ideal kingship and a towering figure in India’s cultural evolution. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the grand theatrical production Samrat Vikramaditya Mahanatya Mahamanchan at Delhi’s Red Fort complex, the Vice President said the emperor’s reign glorified not just his era but the nation as a whole.

“Emperor Vikramaditya’s unmatched contributions to the development of Indian cultural consciousness continue to inspire generations. His model of governance, centered on compassion and public welfare, remains a beacon for rulers even today,” Dhankhar said, emphasizing his support for arts, literature, science, and inclusive leadership.

Organised by the Madhya Pradesh Government, the three-day cultural extravaganza running from April 12 to 14 showcases the life and legacy of Vikramaditya through a large-scale theatrical production featuring over 250 artists. The event commenced with the national anthem, followed by ceremonial lamp lighting by the Vice President and dignitaries.

Embracing Culture, Language, and Legacy
Calling Indian culture a unique model of simplicity and value-based living, Vice President Dhankhar stressed the importance of national identity and pride in Indian languages. He praised the New Education Policy for promoting India’s civilizational values and traditional knowledge systems.

He congratulated Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav for orchestrating such a majestic event in the national capital and urged continued collaborations between the Centre, Delhi Government, and states to preserve and promote India’s cultural heritage globally.

“A Symbol of Courage and Compassion”: CM Yadav
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav described Vikramaditya’s reign as a golden era in Indian history, citing his governance as a perfect blend of justice, valor, sensitivity, and reform. “He relieved citizens of debt and often roamed among them in disguise to understand their hardships. His rule wasn’t just administration—it was an example of humane governance,” Yadav noted.

The Chief Minister appealed to citizens to witness the play and reconnect with India’s glorious past. “Our culture is like the continuous flow of the Ganga—ever rich and ever alive,” he said.

“Reviving India’s Golden Age”: Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat
Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat hailed the production as a celebration of India’s intellectual and artistic pinnacle under Vikramaditya. “This theatrical reenactment is a revival of a glorious chapter in Indian history. He was a patron of science, wisdom, and heroism—an ideal monarch,” Shekhawat remarked.

Delhi CM Rekha Gupta: “An Honour for the Capital”
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta thanked CM Yadav for bringing Vikramaditya’s valor and virtues to Delhi audiences. “It’s a privilege for Delhiites to witness the life of such a legendary figure through this grand portrayal,” she said.

Exhibitions and Cultural Showcases
In addition to the play, the event features a coin and seal exhibition by the Maharaja Vikramaditya Research Centre and a special exhibition titled Ārṣa Bhārat, which highlights the lives and contributions of over 100 Indian sages and scientists. Departments from Madhya Pradesh are also showcasing the state’s development, tourism, and industrial progress.

The mega theatrical event will continue through April 14, with Union Minister J.P. Nadda attending as chief guest on Sunday. The production uses traditional elements like palanquins, chariots, horses, and LED graphics to bring the emperor’s story to life.