Chandigarh, June 15: The state government has announced a major expansion of its flagship Mukh Mantri Teerath Yatra Yojna by introducing four prominent spiritual destinations to the state-sponsored travel itinerary. Devotees will now have access to free organized travel to Salasar Balaji Dham, Sri Khatu Shyam Ji, Haridwar-Rishikesh, and Shri Mathura Ji-Vrindavan Dham. The addition of these spiritual locations is part of a broader strategy by the administration to preserve cultural heritage and make historical religious journeys accessible to all citizens across the state.
During an address delivered in the presence of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal noted that the state is expanding its transport infrastructure specifically to assist pilgrims. Currently, a network of specialized Volvo luxury buses operates across two established routes. The first route connects worshippers to Sri Darbar Sahib, Sri Durgiana Temple, and Bhagwan Valmiki Mandir, while the second dedicated line services Sri Anandpur Sahib and Mata Naina Devi Ji Mandir. The upcoming expansion will establish three new distinct travel circuits linking Punjab directly to major sacred sites in Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh.
Arvind Kejriwal stated that group travel under this state initiative fosters unique social bonding, allowing citizens to travel together, stay in shared accommodations, and sing bhajans in unison. He shared that even individuals with independent financial means find great joy in these communal tours. He noted that feedback from early participants has been universally positive, proving that the structured tours create a lasting, meaningful lifetime experience for local families.
Beyond physical pilgrimage infrastructure, the administration is simultaneously directing resources toward cultural restoration and artistic events across various districts. The historical Maa Kali Devi Mandir in Patiala is presently undergoing a comprehensive development project valued at 85 crore rupees, with completion scheduled for September. Arvind Kejriwal also stated that a massive devotional event featuring prominent singers would take place at the Sai Dass Ground. Furthermore, starting from late July, the state will sponsor free public performances of a popular theatrical production based on the Ramayana across multiple municipal hubs, providing high-quality cultural exposure that typically costs thousands of rupees elsewhere.
