Madhya Pradesh’s push for tribal self-reliance took center stage as CM Mohan Yadav opened the grand Shri Mahakal Van Mela 2026 in Ujjain. Amidst spiritual vibes of Mahakal and Harsiddhi, in Krishna’s revered abode, the fair promises economic empowerment through forest treasures, echoing Bhopal’s model.
‘Forests have sustained health across ages; this mela will enlighten on produce while fortifying our industrious tribals financially,’ Yadav asserted. It’s an extension of Ayurvedic heritage—forests as divine apothecaries brimming with life-sustaining herbs.
Visitors can consult over 50 vaidyas and savor elite mahua innovations. Beyond wood or fuel, forests symbolize cultural vitality in eternal traditions. Yadav invoked Ramayana’s Sanjeevani miracle, validating prehistoric scientific mastery over botanicals.
Pioneers like Dhanvantari, Charaka, and Sushruta harnessed wild plants for enduring cures: think Chyawanprash or potent trio amla-harra-baheda, alongside neem, giloy, ashwagandha, arjuna. These guardians ward off ailments naturally.
The pandemic spotlighted Ayurveda globally—our humble kadhas triumphed over pricey meds, bolstered by PM Modi’s AYUSH revolution. Forest narratives now dominate international forums.
Critically, the mela equips tribals with market access, fusing ancestral wisdom, toil, and business savvy to elevate state pride. Six days of immersion: 250 stalls covering non-wood produce, village livelihoods, herb businesses, eco-conservation, value addition, and sales.
Stall stats: 76 from forest committees/Van Dhan, 76 entrepreneurs, 16 govt displays, 16 culinary zones. 50 dedicated free OPDs with 50 Ayurvedic specialists and 100 traditional experts. Dynamic shows of dona-pattal, sabai ropes; star attractions like mahua flowers/gulli, sal/imli seeds, amla, jamun, bel, chakonda.
Ultimately, Shri Mahakal Van Mela heralds a greener, healthier, more prosperous Madhya Pradesh.