Mangal Kalash Yatra marks spiritual start of 67th Kalidas Samaroh

Digital Desk

The sacred Mangal Kalash Yatra was taken out on Friday morning from Ramghat on the Shipra River, marking the ceremonial opening of the 67th All India Kalidas Samaroh. The vibrant procession, filled with devotional music, folk dances, and colorful tableaux, culminated at the Kalidas Academy complex, heralding the start of Ujjain’s most esteemed cultural festival.

Cultural vibrancy from three states

Artists from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Chhattisgarh participated in the Yatra, presenting a lively display of folk art, traditional dance, and music. The air resonated with chants and beats as performers and cultural troupes carried decorative Kalash (sacred pots), symbolizing purity and prosperity.

Rituals at Ramghat and Mahakal Temple

The ceremony began with a Kalash Puja at Ramghat, led by dignitaries including Kalidas Academy Director Govind Gandhe, Dr. Shailendra Kumar, Shree Pad Joshi, Rajesh Kushwah, and Roop Manani. After the rituals, the sacred Kalash was taken to the Mahakal Temple, where prayers were offered to Lord Mahakal for the smooth and successful organization of the festival.

Route and grand reception

The Yatra passed through Gudri Square, Gopal Mandir, Nai Sadak, Chamunda Mata Square, Tower Chowk, and Teen Batti Square before concluding at the Kalidas Academy. Residents lined the streets, welcoming the procession with flowers, music, and applause. School students, local groups, and artists showcased regional dances and band performances, highlighting India’s unity in diversity.

Festival to commence November 1

The 67th All India Kalidas Samaroh will officially commence on Dev Prabodhini Ekadashi (November 1), continuing Ujjain’s centuries-old tradition of celebrating classical art, culture, and literature in memory of the legendary poet Kalidas.

Evening celebrations at Kalidas Academy

The evening programs at Kalidas Academy will begin at 5 PM with the inauguration of an ancient coin exhibition and a book publication counter. The event will be attended by Divisional Commissioner Ashish Singh and DIG Navneet Bhasin.

At 6:30 PM, under the ‘Nandi’ program, more than 1,100 students will present a Mangalacharan (auspicious invocation). The evening will also feature a Sanskrit orchestra performance by students of Gogate Jogalekar College, Ratnagiri (Maharashtra), directed by Dr. Kalpana Athlye, offering a melodic tribute to classical traditions.

The Mangal Kalash Yatra not only marked the spiritual inauguration of the Kalidas Samaroh but also celebrated Ujjain’s cultural spirit, where devotion, art, and heritage blend in timeless harmony.