Kumar Bahukhandi
In Short
*Path to Maa Bamleshwari’s darbar now easier for devotees: CM Sai
*200 pilgrims on inaugural ride; daily service to run all nine days of the festival
Raipur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Tuesday September 23 , 2025 flagged off a fleet of four buses from Raipur’s Akashvani Chowk Kali Mandir, marking the start of a free bus service to Dongargarh’s Maa Bamleshwari shrine for Navratri devotees. Nearly 200 pilgrims boarded the inaugural run.
The initiative, organised by Kali Mata Seva Samiti, will operate through all nine days of Navratri. Four buses will ply daily, ferrying devotees to Dongargarh and back after darshan.
Applauding the effort, CM Sai said the Samiti has been carrying out the seva for a decade with a spirit of dedication. “This service is not only a symbol of faith but also a shining example of social unity. Many devotees long for darshan but cannot travel far—this initiative fulfils that wish. The very thought of Maa’s darshan fills hearts with divine energy, and now reaching Dongargarh has become simpler than ever,” he remarked. He also prayed to Maa Kali and Maa Bamleshwari for Chhattisgarh’s peace, prosperity, and happiness, while extending Navratri greetings to all citizens.
Chief Minister Shri Sai pointed out that the recently launched Rajim–Raipur MEMU train will also benefit devotees from the state’s ‘Kumbhnagri’ Rajim, easing travel to Dongargarh. He praised Kali Mata Seva Samiti leaders Shrichand Sundrani, Deepak Bhardwaj, and other office-bearers for their commitment to public service.
Home Minister Vijay Sharma, addressing the gathering, urged the Samiti to add a bus route from Kawardha.
The event witnessed the presence of Revenue Minister TankRam Verma, Raipur Mayor Meenal Chaubey, MLAs Sunil Soni and Purandar Mishra, along with a large number of devotees and dignitaries.
