Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath inaugurated the grand ‘Rangotsav 2025’ in Barsana, Mathura, during his one-day visit, marking the beginning of the region’s vibrant Holi celebrations.
On this special occasion, CM Yogi expressed his vision for the comprehensive development of Mathura and Braj Bhoomi, following the successful revitalization of Kashi and Ayodhya. He emphasized that the sacred land of Braj, deeply rooted in Sanatan culture for over 5,000 years, embodies devotion and spiritual richness, with the divine presence of Shri Radha and Shri Krishna pervading every aspect of its essence.
The Chief Minister began the celebrations by offering prayers at the revered Shri Ladli Ji Maharaj temple. He then participated in the traditional Laddumar Holi and a floral Holi event, officially commencing the colorful festivities that draw thousands of devotees and tourists from across the globe.
In his address, CM Yogi underscored the significance of Uttar Pradesh as the custodian of three of the most sacred pilgrimage sites—Kashi, Ayodhya, and Mathura—each standing as a beacon of Sanatan unity. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for pioneering the preservation and development of India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, a commitment evident in the grand success of the recently concluded Mahakumbh in Prayagraj.
Highlighting the resilience of Sanatan Dharma, the Chief Minister remarked that those who have sought to question, misrepresent, or distort its core values have been met with unwavering faith and devotion from its followers. He further described Holi as a festival that reinforces harmony and unity, much like the Mahakumbh, and lauded the unique traditions of Barsana, including the world-famous Lathmar Holi and Laddumar Holi, which epitomize the region’s rich cultural legacy.
CM Yogi announced significant financial allocations in the state’s budget to accelerate the development of Braj Bhoomi. He revealed that Barsana would benefit from substantial investments, linking the region to new avenues of growth and prosperity. Among the key initiatives, a ropeway service has been introduced in Barsana for the first time, enhancing accessibility to sacred sites. He affirmed that after transforming Kashi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, and Maa Vindhyavasini Dham, the state government is now fully committed to the upliftment of Mathura, Barsana, and the broader Braj region.
The Chief Minister reassured the public that there would be no constraints on the scale of development in the region. Expressing his devotion to Shri Radharani Ji during the Holi festivities, he pledged unwavering dedication to the progress of Braj Bhoomi. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to rejuvenating the Yamuna River, ensuring it becomes as clean and free-flowing as the sacred Ganga.
During the event, CM Yogi honored and revered saints and extended Holi and Rangotsav greetings to devotees from India and abroad. He emphasized the spiritual significance of Braj, stating that Barsana represents Brahma, Nandgaon symbolizes Shiva, and Govardhan embodies Vishnu, making the region an unparalleled source of divine blessings for Sanatan Dharma followers. He also highlighted that the “double-engine government” is steadfast in its mission to ensure security, development, and prosperity for all.
On this auspicious occasion of Holi, the Chief Minister expressed confidence that the developmental momentum in Braj Bhoomi would continue to gain strength. He visited the Shri Ladli Ji Maharaj temple and prayed for the well-being and prosperity of the state and its people.
Prominent figures present at the event included saints such as Vinod Baba, Ramsukh Das, Madhavdas Mouni Baba, and Phalahari Baba, along with ministers Sandeep Singh and Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan. Also in attendance were Rajya Sabha MP Tejveer Singh, MLAs Meghshyam Singh, Puran Prakash, Rajesh Chaudhary, Yogesh Chaudhary, and Om Prakash Singh, as well as Mayor Vinod Agarwal, District Panchayat President Kishan Chaudhary, BJP Regional President Durvijay Singh, BJP leader Nirbhay Pandey, Ghanshyam Singh Lodhi, Nagar Panchayat President Barsana Vijay Singh, and Vice President of Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad, Shailaja Kant Mishra. Adding to the cultural splendor, renowned artist Geetanjali Sharma and her group presented a mesmerizing dance performance themed around the ‘Holi of Flowers.’
As part of his visit, CM Yogi also reviewed the progress of various regional development projects. Shailaja Kant Mishra briefed him on completed projects worth approximately Rs 29 crore, undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad. The Chief Minister instructed officials to ensure the timely and high-quality execution of all ongoing initiatives across the Braj region, prioritizing the welfare of both pilgrims and residents.
Among the key projects in Barsana, he highlighted the establishment of the Radharani Kitchen, the installation of facade lighting at the Shri Radharani Temple, and the introduction of the ropeway facility under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to improve accessibility for devotees. Other significant developments included the Yatri Jan Suvidha Kendra near Govardhan Drain, the enhancement of Priya Kund Peeli Pokhar with facade lighting, and the construction of a PWD Guest House Facilitation Centre.
Commending these initiatives, CM Yogi reiterated the government’s dedication to preserving and enhancing the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Braj region. He assured that all necessary efforts would be made to accelerate its transformation while maintaining the highest quality standards.
The Chief Minister concluded his visit by directing officials to expedite the completion of all development projects in Barsana and the wider Braj region, ensuring that both locals and pilgrims benefit maximally from these advancements.