Chief Minister Mohan Yadav stated that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Madhya Pradesh has achieved yet another milestone in preserving and showcasing its rich historical legacy on the global stage. Chief Minister Dr. Yadav expressed immense pride and joy as UNESCO added four more historical sites from the state to its Tentative List under serial nomination. The newly included sites are the Ashokan Edicts, Chausath Yogini Temples, Gupta Period Temples, and the Forts and Palaces of the Bundela Rulers. This recognition reinforces Madhya Pradesh's unique cultural heritage and historical significance in India.
With this latest addition, the state now boasts 18 sites in UNESCO's recognized lists, comprising 15 in the Tentative List and 3 in the Permanent World Heritage List. Previously, UNESCO had included six sites from Madhya Pradesh in the Tentative List, including Gwalior Fort, the Khooni Bhandara of Burhanpur, Rock Art sites of Chambal Valley, Bhojeshwar Mahadev Temple in Bhojpur, Gond Monuments of Ramnagar in Mandla, and the historic group of Dhamnar.
Madhya Pradesh's permanent UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the renowned Khajuraho Group of Temples, the ancient rock shelters of Bhimbetka, and the historic Buddhist monuments of Sanchi. The Tentative List also features Mandu's group of monuments, Orchha's historic structures, Bhedaghat-Lametaghat in the Narmada Valley, Satpura Tiger Reserve, and Chanderi.
Yadav extended heartfelt congratulations to the MP Tourism Board, the Department of Culture, archaeologists, history enthusiasts, institutions, and the people of the state for their invaluable contributions to heritage conservation. He emphasized that this recognition would propel Madhya Pradesh onto the global tourism map and provide a renewed identity to its glorious past. Urging citizens to remain committed to heritage conservation, Dr. Yadav called upon everyone to work together in preserving and promoting the state's cultural grandeur.
Dating back to the Mauryan period, the Ashokan Edicts are among the earliest written records in Indian history. These inscriptions, carved on pillars and rocks, reflect Emperor Ashoka’s messages on Buddhism, governance, and ethics, preserved for over 2,200 years. The key locations included in Madhya Pradesh are the Sanchi pillar inscription, the Rupnath minor rock edict in Jabalpur, the Gujjara minor rock edict in Datia, and the Panguraria minor rock edict in Sehore.
Built between the 9th and 12th centuries, the Chausath Yogini Temples are symbols of tantric traditions. These circular, open-air temples feature intricate sculptures and hold deep spiritual significance. The selected temples include those in Khajuraho, Mitawali (Morena), Jabalpur, Badoh (Jabalpur), Hinglajgarh (Mandsaur), Shahdol, and Naresar (Morena).
The Gupta period is often referred to as the golden age of Indian temple architecture. The temples included in the UNESCO list showcase exquisite carvings, architectural brilliance, and the early development of shikhara-style structures. The listed sites include temples in Sanchi, Udayagiri (Vidisha), Nachna (Panna), Tigawa (Katni), Bhumara (Satna), Sakor (Damoh), Deori (Sagar), and Pawaya (Gwalior).
The forts and palaces of the Bundela dynasty highlight a fascinating blend of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The selected sites include the Garhkundar Fort, Raja Mahal, Jahangir Mahal, Datia Mahal, and Dhubela Mahal. These structures reflect Bundela craftsmanship, military strategy, and the rich cultural heritage of the region.
This latest recognition by UNESCO will further bolster tourism, conservation efforts, and global appreciation of Madhya Pradesh’s rich history and architectural marvels. The state government remains committed to preserving and promoting its cultural heritage for future generations..
