UP News: UP Declares ‘Krishnavatarm’ Tax-Free After Special Screening at Lok Bhavan

Uttar Pradesh declares Krishnavatarm tax free after a special Lucknow screening attended by the Governor and senior ministers. The film portrays Krishna’s life through a cultural and Sanatan lens, prompting praise from the Chief Minister and calls for wider screenings to connect youth with tradition.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday announced that the film ‘Krishnavatarm’ has been declared tax-free in the state following a special screening held at the Lok Bhavan Auditorium in Lucknow.

The screening was attended by Governor Anandiben Patel, both Deputy Chief Ministers, cabinet ministers, and several public representatives shortly after the expansion of the state cabinet. The Lok Bhavan Auditorium witnessed a devotional atmosphere as chants of "Krishna-Krishna" and "Radhe-Radhe" echoed throughout the packed venue during the screening.

The audience displayed immense enthusiasm for the film, while Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also felicitated the film’s artists on stage. ‘Krishnavatarm’ presents the life of Lord Krishna from a human perspective and showcases various aspects of the Dwapar Yuga, ancient Indian culture, and Sanatan traditions.

The film also portrays Krishna’s relationships with Radha, Rukmini, and Satyabhama through distinct narratives. Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath raised slogans of "Vrindavan Bihari Lal Ki Jai" and "Bharat Mata Ki Jai."

He said it was a memorable occasion as ministers who had recently taken oath after the cabinet expansion joined the entire cabinet to watch the film together. The Chief Minister said the film reflects India’s cultural and traditional heritage and helps bring the country’s ancient legacy into the mainstream.

He added that films rooted in Indian culture can play a major role in connecting younger generations with the nation’s traditions and values. He praised actress Sanskriti, who portrayed the role of Satyabhama in the film, for her impactful performance.

During the event, Sanskriti sought blessings from the Chief Minister. Yogi Adityanath thanked the film’s producer, director, and artists for creating a film centered on Indian culture and traditions.

He also directed the Information Department to assist in organizing special screenings of the film across all districts of Uttar Pradesh so that children and youth could better understand the country’s culture, traditions, and Sanatan heritage. The Chief Minister also expressed gratitude to Governor Anandiben Patel and mentioned that the film’s lead actress Sanskriti is her granddaughter.

He said it was a proud and emotional moment for any grandmother to witness the success of a child she had nurtured. Governor Anandiben Patel, while addressing the audience, thanked the Chief Minister and said that more films based on Indian culture and traditions should be made.

She also extended her wishes to the newly inducted ministers. Among those present at the event were Legislative Council Chairman Kunwar Manvendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Finance and BJP state president Pankaj Chaudhary, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak, along with several ministers and public representatives.

Directed by Hardik Gajjar, the film has been released in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu languages. It stars Siddharth Gupta, Sanskriti, Sushmita Bhatt, and Nivasini Krishnan in key roles. Veteran actors Jackie Shroff and Ashutosh Rana have also delivered notable performances in the film.