Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai Inaugurates Seven-Day Photo Exhibition on Independence Day

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Raipur, / Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated a seven-day photo exhibition organised by the Public Relations Department at the historic Town Hall, Kachahari Chowk, Raipur, on the occasion of the 80th Independence Day. The exhibition brings together Chhattisgarh’s contribution to India’s freedom struggle, the valour and sacrifices of its freedom fighters, the glorious 150-year journey of ‘Vande Mataram’, and the state’s progress in good governance and development, presenting its journey from a proud past to an aspirational future.

Chief Minister Shri Sai visited various sections of the exhibition and viewed rare photographs, historical documents and informative displays. He said that many brave sons of Chhattisgarh struggled and made supreme sacrifices for India’s freedom, and taking their contribution and inspiring stories of patriotism to the new generation is a collective responsibility. Such initiatives, he said, acquaint young people with their history while strengthening patriotism, duty and dedication towards the nation.

The Chief Minister said the exhibition not only preserves memories of the freedom struggle but also inspires the resolve to build a Developed Chhattisgarh and Developed India. While one section portrays the struggles and sacrifices of freedom fighters, other sections showcase the state’s transformation through public welfare schemes, good governance, modern infrastructure and technology.

*‘Vande Mataram’: 150 Years of National Awakening*

A major attraction is a special section dedicated to the 150-year journey of ‘Vande Mataram’. Through historical references and photographs, it traces the national song from its composition to its emergence as a powerful voice of national awakening during the freedom movement. The display highlights how ‘Vande Mataram’ united people and inspired freedom fighters and revolutionaries to make sacrifices for the motherland, acquainting younger generations with its historical significance and enduring national spirit.

*Chhattisgarh’s Contribution to the Freedom Struggle*

The exhibition extensively portrays Chhattisgarh’s role in India’s freedom movement through rare photographs, documents and historical accounts of freedom fighters, public heroes and martyrs. Important episodes related to Mahatma Gandhi’s visits to Chhattisgarh, along with social and national movements against British rule in the region, have also been prominently displayed, offering visitors an insight into the state’s significant contribution to the freedom struggle.

*Chief Minister Announces Rs. 50 Lakh Each for Town Hall and Shaheed Smarak*

On the occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai announced Rs. 50 lakh each for the conservation, beautification and renovation of the historic Town Hall and Shaheed Smarak in Raipur. He said Shaheed Smarak preserves the memories of those who made the supreme sacrifice for the nation, while Town Hall represents Raipur’s rich historical and cultural heritage.

The Chief Minister said the State Government is moving forward while preserving its heritage alongside modern development. Conservation and improvement of these landmarks, he said, will help younger generations better understand Chhattisgarh’s history, culture and tradition of sacrifice.

*From Public Welfare to a Developed Chhattisgarh*

The exhibition also showcases the impact of major public welfare initiatives on women, farmers, youth, workers and needy families. It highlights women’s economic empowerment through the Mahtari Vandan Yojana, support to farmers under the Krishak Unnati Yojana, and housing for needy families through the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, as well as initiatives related to education, skills, employment, and workers’ welfare.

The state’s development journey is presented through initiatives in transparent governance, digital registration, grievance redressal through Sushasan Tihar, environmental conservation, education and infrastructure. Improvements in road and rail connectivity, industrial infrastructure, investment and employment opportunities further depict the emerging picture of a developed Chhattisgarh. Shri Sai said the sacrifices of freedom fighters inspire citizens to fulfil their responsibilities towards the nation and contribute to building a developed state.

*AI-Based Initiative Connects Youth with Chhattisgarh’s Heritage*

An innovative AI-based initiative at the exhibition allows visitors to create digital photographs of themselves against the backdrop of prominent pilgrimage and tourist destinations of Chhattisgarh. Particularly popular among children and youth, the initiative uses technology to connect the new generation with the state’s tourism, cultural and religious heritage. Visitors can also receive these photographs as souvenirs.

A visitor diary has been placed at the venue for visitors to record their thoughts on Independence Day, patriotism and Chhattisgarh’s development journey. Chief Minister Shri Sai recorded his thoughts in the visitor book and extended Independence Day greetings to the people of the state. A special documentary showcasing the state’s achievements, welfare schemes and development initiatives is also being screened.

Appreciating the initiative of the Public Relations Department, he particularly appealed to youth and students to visit the exhibition, saying that understanding history and heritage makes citizens more conscious of their responsibilities in the present and inspires them to build a better future.

The exhibition will remain open to the public at the historic Town Hall, Kachahari Chowk, from August 15 to 21, 2026, daily from 10:30 AM to 8 PM.

Chief Minister’s Advisor Shri R. Krishna Das, MLA Shri Purandar Mishra, Public Relations Commissioner Shri Rajat Bansal, Collector Shri Gaurav Singh, Additional Director Shri Umesh Mishra, Shri Sanjeev Tiwari, Shri Alok Dev, and senior officials and employees of the Public Relations Department were present on the occasion.

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