Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav announced that the Pachmarhi Sanctuary will now be known as ‘Raja Bhabhoot Singh Pachmarhi Sanctuary’. This renaming is dedicated to Raja Bhabhoot Singh’s love for nature and his lifelong efforts to protect Pachmarhi from foreign forces. The sanctuary will also showcase details of Raja Bhabhoot Singh’s life, his struggles, valour, and contributions. This move aims to enhance local pride and strengthen the identity of the sanctuary, making it a symbol of both historical and natural heritage.
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav made this announcement while addressing the Council of Ministers ahead of their meeting at the Raj Bhavan in Pachmarhi. He stated that Raja Bhabhoot Singh had a deep influence on the tribal society, and his tales of bravery still resonate in the public consciousness. Holding the cabinet meeting in Pachmarhi is a tribute to his legacy.
Recalling Raja Bhabhoot Singh’s contributions, Dr. Yadav said he was a close ally of freedom fighter Tatya Tope during the 1857 War of Independence. Known for his guerrilla warfare tactics, Bhabhoot Singh was referred to as the "Shivaji of Narmadanchal." The British had to summon the Madras Infantry to capture him. Despite constant battles against the British until 1860, they could only arrest him after two years and subsequently hanged him the same year.
The valor and sacrifice of Raja Bhabhoot Singh have been kept alive by the Korku community through folk songs and devotional hymns. His tales are still told in the villages, temples, and folk culture of the Pachmarhi region. He is not just a warrior, but a symbol of tribal identity and self-respect. His story is also documented in British officer Elliott’s 1865 Settlement Report. Raja Bhabhoot Singh is a name of pride not just for the Korku community but for the entire Indian freedom struggle. His life is a living example of tribal pride, patriotism, and spiritual strength. Dr. Yadav emphasized that it is our moral duty to bring his legacy to national attention.
Dr. Yadav announced that three tribal community conventions will be organized this month. The Convention at Bajag in Dindori on June 7, Kol Convention in Beohari, Shahdol on June 9 to mark Birsa Munda Jayanti and Sahariya Convention in Kolaras, Shivpuri on June 18. He also informed that from June 9 to 21, state-wide events will be held to commemorate 11 years of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s public welfare governance. Additionally, the birth centenary of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vapayee will be celebrated, who shared a special bond with Madhya Pradesh.