Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by cabinet colleagues and distinguished guests, attended a grand light and sound show at the Namo Yamuna River Safari in Sonia Vihar (Pankaj Rai)
New Delhi: Delhi witnessed a vibrant blend of spirituality, culture and tourism on the first day of the Chhath festival as Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, accompanied by cabinet colleagues and distinguished guests, attended a grand light and sound show at the Namo Yamuna River Safari in Sonia Vihar. The event, themed around the divine leelas of Lord Krishna, transformed the Yamuna riverfront into a spectacular setting with colourful lighting, melodious music, cultural performances and an impressive musical fountain.
The programme opened with a visual presentation depicting the mythological birth story of Goddess Yamuna and her brother Yamaraj. It was followed by the divine account of Goddess Yamuna's descent from Golok to Earth. Through an impressive combination of sound, lighting and musical fountain effects, several stories associated with Goddess Yamuna and Lord Krishna were brought to life.
As the performance progressed, synchronised water movements, vibrant lights and music created an enchanting atmosphere for visitors. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta enjoyed the presentation alongside cabinet ministers and other dignitaries. The event provided a cultural platform for celebrating Delhi's religious traditions and heritage during the auspicious Chhath festival.
Addressing the occasion, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta described the light and sound show as a memorable experience, particularly because of its organisation along the Yamuna during Chhath.
She said the Namo Yamuna River Safari would offer Delhi residents an opportunity to reconnect with the river, explore its historical and cultural significance, and enjoy new recreational activities with their families.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the government's vision extends beyond preserving the Yamuna's religious importance. It also aims to establish the river as a prominent centre of Delhi's cultural, social and tourism activities. She added that river conservation, cleanliness, development of riverfront areas and world-class visitor facilities remain key priorities.
Rekha Gupta also urged opposition parties to avoid political differences during the Chhath celebrations and work towards promoting harmony.
She said Chhath is not merely a religious festival but also represents faith, discipline, dedication and social unity. According to her, the occasion provides an opportunity for people across communities and political affiliations to come together, strengthen mutual understanding and express gratitude towards nature.
The Chief Minister extended her wishes to Delhi residents and hoped that the blessings of Chhathi Maiya would bring continued development, prosperity and happiness to the capital.
A major attraction of the Namo Yamuna River Safari is its newly introduced electric cruise service. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the service on November 10 along an approximately four-kilometre water route connecting Sonia Vihar and Jagatpur.
The electric cruise has a passenger capacity of 30 and is intended to allow visitors to experience the Yamuna's natural surroundings and cultural heritage more closely.
The government is also planning to introduce another cruise by February-March 2027, which would further expand river tourism opportunities in the capital.
The river safari complex has been equipped with several facilities to make it a convenient recreational destination for families. These include a floating jetty, ticket counters, waiting areas, a food court, parking facilities and a dedicated children's play zone.
Other attractions include a musical fountain and charging infrastructure for electric cruises. Through these developments, the government aims to integrate tourism with the river's natural environment while providing visitors with modern amenities.
The administration expects the electric cruise service, cultural programmes and light and sound shows to make the location an important attraction for residents and tourists alike.
Rekha Gupta said initiatives such as the Namo Yamuna River Safari would create fresh recreational opportunities while strengthening local tourism. She added that the government wants the Yamuna to regain its place as an important part of Delhi's social and cultural identity.
The event was attended by Union Minister of State Harsh Malhotra, Delhi Cabinet Ministers Sardar Manjinder Singh Sirsa, Kapil Mishra and Ravinder Indraj, along with Member of Parliament Manoj Tiwari, MLAs and several other distinguished guests.
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