CM Yogi Adityanath Stresses Cinema's Role in Shaping Societal Values
In a significant address in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday called upon filmmakers to produce content that inspires society, cautioning against the glorification of negative characters. Speaking at a grand theatrical presentation on Chakravarti Samrat Vikramaditya, he emphasized the profound responsibility of cinema and drama in molding public values and youth inspiration.
The Power of Positive Portrayals in Media
Theatrical presentation is not merely a theatrical programme, but is also a medium to connect people with their values, stated Adityanath. He elaborated that drama, art, and cinema shape society, and the characters portrayed by artists have a direct impact on the younger generation. I suggest filmmakers showcase positive characters as heroes, he urged, highlighting a shift from past trends where negative characters were often glorified, leading to societal misdirection.
Reflecting on historical context, the Chief Minister noted that Indian cinema has traditionally played a positive role when it aligns with the country's ideals. Whatever is presented to the current generation will shape them in the same manner, he asserted, underscoring the need for mindful content creation in today's changing times.
Cultural Revival Through Vikramaditya's Legacy
The event, part of Vikramotsav-2026, featured a three-day grand theatrical production titled Samrat Vikramaditya, staged live to spread the emperor's ideals of good governance and justice. With over 225 artists, elephants, horses, chariots, and spectacular battle scenes, the production vividly depicted Vikramaditya's life from birth to coronation, including tales like Vikram Betal and the rise of Sanatan Dharm.
Adityanath described this dramatic rendition as a means to revive core values such as Indian culture, valour, philanthropy, justice, and effective governance. It is part of a broader initiative to connect today's youth with ancient cultural values and ideals, he explained, linking the effort to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's push for traditional knowledge, which has gained global acceptance in areas like yoga and Ayush.
Strengthening Cultural Ties Between States
The Chief Minister highlighted the historical connection between Kashi (Varanasi) and Ujjain, comparing it to iconic brotherly duos like Ram-Laxman and Krishna-Balaram. He noted that Vikramaditya's base was Ujjain, while Bhartrihari meditated on the banks of the Ganga in Kashi, with the Chunar fort owing its existence to Bhartrihari's penance. The Uttar Pradesh government is currently beautifying and preserving this fort.
Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, who also addressed the gathering, emphasized the legacy of Vikramaditya and the cultural ties between the two states. We are working together with the Uttar Pradesh govt to strengthen cultural ties between the two states, he stated. Yadav welcomed Yogi Adityanath by presenting a Dharm Pattika and gifted a 700-kilogram Vikramaditya Vedic Clock, which will be installed at the Shri Baba Kashi Vishwanath Temple on Saturday.
Global Impact and Historical Continuity
Adityanath pointed out that this event bridges Ujjain, known for Indian timekeeping, and Kashi, a hub for panchang creation, showcasing India's time-tracking tradition globally. He referenced the Kumbh tradition, which drew over 66 crore devotees globally in Prayagraj in 2019, and noted the increased annual visits to Kashi and Ayodhya following projects like the Kashi Vishwanath Corridor and Ram Temple.
Highlighting Vikramaditya's historical role, the Chief Minister mentioned that the emperor rediscovered Ayodhya 2,000 years ago and built the first Ram Temple after Lav, Ram's son. PM Modi's efforts are continuing Vikramaditya's legacy, he added, connecting past and present initiatives in cultural and governance revival.
In conclusion, Yogi Adityanath thanked CM Mohan Yadav, the Sanskrit department, and the artists for their commendable effort, stating that such events are crucial for passing India's rich cultural heritage to future generations and fostering a society grounded in positive values and inspiration.
