Gujarat CM Launches Vibrant Navratri Festival 2026
CM Bhupendra Patel launches the Vibrant Navratri Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad, celebrating Gujarat's cultural heritage and women's entrepreneurship.
In a grand celebration of culture and tradition, Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel officially inaugurated the Vibrant Navratri Festival 2026 in Ahmedabad. The event, organized by the State Government’s Tourism Department, marks the beginning of a spectacular season of dance and devotion across the state.
A Global Stage for Garba
Addressing a distinguished gathering, Chief Minister Patel emphasized that Garba, the soul of Gujarat’s folk traditions, has achieved massive global recognition. He credited the initiative started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for elevating this cultural heritage to an international stage. The inauguration was graced by ambassadors from six different countries, highlighting the festival's worldwide appeal.
Empowering Women Through Entrepreneurship
Beyond the festivities, the event served as a platform for grassroots empowerment. The Chief Minister inaugurated a specialized exhibition showcasing home-based industry and handicraft products. These items were crafted by women from various Self-Help Groups and Sakhi Mandals, organized by the Gujarat Livelihood Promotion Company.
During the event, the CM personally interacted with the women of the Sakhi Mandals, taking a keen interest in their craftsmanship and the products they have developed through their entrepreneurial efforts.
Vision of 'Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi'
The Chief Minister reflected on the broader vision of "Virasat Bhi, Vikas Bhi" (Heritage as well as Development), noting how various state and national initiatives have balanced cultural nationalism with modern progress. He cited several key milestones, including:
- The Vibrant Global Summit
- The Statue of Unity
- Rann Utsav
- The Ambaji Corridor
- The historic flag hoisting at Pavagadh
- The Kedarnath Dham and Kashi Vishwanath Corridors
Patel noted that the Vibrant Navratri Festival 2026 holds special significance this year, as it coincides with the completion of 25 years of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's service to the nation.
Looking Toward Viksit Bharat 2047
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister offered prayers to Adi Shakti Maa Ambaji, seeking blessings for the prosperity of the state. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that Gujarat continues to play a leading role in realizing the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
The ceremony was attended by several prominent leaders, including Minister of State for Urban Development Darshana Vaghela, Ahmedabad Mayor Hitesh Barot, Member of Parliament Dineshbhai Makwana, and various MLAs from Ahmedabad city.