As part of Vikramotsav-2026, a three-day mega theatrical production named Samrat Vikramaditya Mahanaatya is set to take place at the BLW grounds in Varanasi starting from April 3. The production aims to promote the values of justice, good governance, and righteous rule associated with the legendary Emperor Vikramaditya of Ujjain. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav will also unveil a Vikramaditya Vedic Clock at the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi during the event.
The world’s first such clock was installed in Ujjain and was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2024. The theatrical production will be inaugurated with the joint support of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Conceptualized by Mohan Yadav, the play has been scripted by Padma Shri Bhagwatilal Rajpurohit, produced by Rajesh Kushwaha, and directed by Sanjeev Malvi, featuring a large cast of over 200 artists.
The production will narrate the life of Emperor Vikramaditya from birth to coronation, including popular stories of Vikram and Betal, and the revival of Sanatan Dharma. To facilitate the production, three platforms are being constructed, including a main stage measuring 80×62 feet and two side stages of 42×42 feet each. The show will highlight Vikramaditya’s court Navratnas, such as Kalidasa and Varahamihira, with live performances involving animals like horses, camels, and elephants, along with modern elements like advanced graphics, LED screens, and fireworks.
Seating arrangements are being prepared for an audience of 10,000 to 15,000 people. The production is being managed by the Maharaja Vikramaditya Research Chair, aiming to enhance cultural awareness and strengthen the spiritual and cultural ties between Ujjain and Varanasi. The Vedic Clock follows the traditional Indian timekeeping system based on sunrise, dividing a day into 30 muhurtas, 900 kalas, and 27,000 kashthas, displaying Vedic time, Panchang, the Vikram Samvat calendar, planetary positions, and more. Additionally, a dedicated mobile application for the clock is available in over 180 languages.
