Inclusion of 4 historical heritage sites of the state in UNESCO’s tentative list is a matter of joy and pride: Chief Minister Dr. Yadav

Bhopal : Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, another important achievement has been achieved in the direction of giving global recognition to the rich historical heritage of Madhya Pradesh. It is a matter of great pride and joy for the state that UNESCO has included four historical heritages of the state in the tentative list under serial nomination. The declaration of Emperor Ashoka’s inscriptions, Chausath Yogini Temple, Gupta period temple and Bundela rulers’ palaces and forts in UNESCO’s tentative list proves that Madhya Pradesh holds a special place in the country due to its cultural heritage and historical importance. Last year also, UNESCO had included 6 heritages of the state, Gwalior Fort, Khuni Bhandara of Burhanpur, rock art sites of Chambal Valley, Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple of Bhojpur, Gond Memorial of Ramnagar located in Mandla and historical group of Dhamnar in the tentative list. Madhya Pradesh now has 18 heritages declared by UNESCO. Out of which 3 are in the permanent and 15 in the tentative list. In the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage, the Khajuraho Temple Group, Bhimbetka Caves and Sanchi Stupa are included in the permanent list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. In the tentative list of UNESCO, the group of monuments in Mandu, the historical group of Orchha, Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in Narmada Valley, Satpura Tiger Reserve and Chanderi are also included. This achievement reflects our commitment towards the conservation and promotion of our heritage.

Chief Minister Dr. Yadav has congratulated the MP Tourism Board, Culture Department, archaeologists, history lovers, institutions and the people of the state for this important achievement, who have made an invaluable contribution in preserving the historical heritage. He said that this achievement will give Madhya Pradesh new heights on the world tourism map, as well as give a new identity to our glorious past. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav appealed to the people of the state that we all should remain committed to the preservation of our heritage and take the cultural dignity of Madhya Pradesh to greater heights.

Ashoka’s Edicts of the Mauryan Period

The Mauryan period Ashoka inscriptions are the oldest written records in India. These rock and pillar inscriptions contain messages by Emperor Ashoka on Buddhism, governance and morality, which have been preserved for more than 2,200 years. Tourist sites in Madhya Pradesh include the Sanchi Pillar Inscription, the Rupnath Minor Inscription in Jabalpur, the Gujjara Minor Inscription in Datia and the Panaguraria Minor Inscription in Sehore.

Ashoka’s rock edicts at Sanchi

Sixty-four Yogini Temple

The sixty-four Yogini temples built between the 9th and 12th centuries in the state are a symbol of Tantric traditions. The circular, open-air structures, intricate craftsmanship and spiritual significance of these temples are unique. These include the sixty-four Yogini temples of Khajuraho, Mitawali (Morena), Jabalpur, Badoh (Jabalpur), Hinglajgarh (Mandsaur), Shahdol and Naresar (Morena).

Mitawali, Morena

Gupta Period Temples of North India

The Gupta period temples located in Sanchi, Udayagiri (Vidisha), Nachana (Panna), Tigwa (Katni), Bhumara (Satna), Sakor (Damoh), Deori (Sagar) and Pawaya (Gwalior) in the state have been included by UNESCO. Gupta period temples represent an important achievement in Indian temple architecture. The temples display excellent carvings, shikhara style and artistic beauty.

Sanchi, Gupta period temple

Forts and palaces of the Bundela period

Garhkundar Fort, Raja Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, Datia Palace and Dhubela Palace of the Bundela period represent the best amalgamation of Rajput and Mughal architecture. These palaces are wonderful examples of Bundela craftsmanship, military prowess and cultural exchange.

Jahangir Palace, Orchha Garhkundar Fort, Niwari