CM Yogi Adityanath Urges Filmmakers to Promote Positive Heroes in Cinema
In a significant address in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasized the profound responsibility of cinema in shaping societal values. Speaking on Friday at a grand theatrical presentation dedicated to Chakravarti Samrat Vikramaditya, the chief minister called upon filmmakers to produce content that inspires society, while cautioning against the glorification of negative characters.
Cinema as a Medium for Positive Influence
Yogi Adityanath stated, "Theatrical presentation is not merely a theatrical programme, but is also a medium to connect people with their values. Drama, art, and cinema shape society, and characters played by artists inspire youth. I suggest filmmakers showcase positive characters as heroes."
He reflected on past trends, noting, "There was a time when cinema glorified negative characters as heroes, and it led to a generation going astray. But today, times have changed." The CM highlighted that Indian cinema has historically played a positive role when it reflects the country's ideals, adding, "Whatever is presented to the current generation will shape them in the same manner."
Cultural Revival Through Vikramaditya Presentation
The event, part of Vikramotsav-2026, featured a three-day grand theatrical production titled "Samrat Vikramaditya," staged live to spread the good governance and love for justice of Ujjain's Emperor Vikramaditya. With over 225 artists, elephants, horses, chariots, palanquins, grand battle scenes, light shows, fireworks, dance, and divine glimpses of Baba Mahakal's ‘Bhasm Aarti,’ the production brought to life the saga from the birth to the coronation of the great emperor, including the tale of Vikram Betal and the epic narrative of the rise of Sanatan Dharm.
Yogi Adityanath described this dramatic rendition as a means to revive values like Indian culture, valour, philanthropy, justice, and good governance. He emphasized it is part of a broader initiative to connect today's youth with ancient cultural values and ideals.
Strengthening Cultural Ties Between States
The CM highlighted the connection between Kashi (Varanasi) and Ujjain, drawing parallels to iconic brotherly duos in Indian tradition. "Just like Ram-Laxman and Krishna-Balaram are revered pairs, Bhartrihari and Vikramaditya are celebrated in Nath Sampradaya," he said. Vikramaditya's base was Ujjain, while Bhartrihari meditated on Kashi's Ganga banks. The Chunar fort, right across Kashi, owes its existence to Bhartrihari's penance, and the UP government is now beautifying and preserving it.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who also addressed the gathering, highlighted the legacy of Vikramaditya and cultural ties between the two states. "We are working together with the Uttar Pradesh government to strengthen cultural ties between the two states," he said. Earlier, Yadav welcomed Yogi by presenting a Dharm Pattika and gifted a 700-kilogram Vikramaditya Vedic Clock, which will be installed at Shri Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple on Saturday.
Global Recognition of Indian Traditions
Yogi Adityanath noted that this event bridges Ujjain, the city of Indian timekeeping, and Kashi, the hub of panchang creation, showcasing India's time-tracking tradition globally. He pointed out that post-2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for traditional knowledge and skills is gaining global acceptance, be it in yoga or ayush.
The CM referenced the Kumbh tradition, thousands of years old, which drew over 66 crore devotees globally in Prayagraj in 2019. He added that millions visit Kashi and Ayodhya yearly after the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and Ram Temple projects. Vikramaditya played a key role in Ayodhya's revival, having rediscovered the city 2,000 years ago and built the first Ram Temple after Lav (Ram's son). Yogi stated that PM Modi's efforts are continuing Vikramaditya's legacy.
In conclusion, Yogi Adityanath thanked Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, the Sanskrit department, and artists for this commendable effort, saying such events will help pass on India's cultural heritage to the next generation, reinforcing the importance of positive storytelling in cinema and cultural preservation.
