Somanna Launches Book on Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train

Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti V. Somanna launched the coffee table book ““Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train: Journey of a Thousand Shrines”” at Rail Bhawan on 23 February 2026. The publication documents one of Indian Railways’ most significant cultural tourism initiatives under the Bharat Gaurav Policy.

Describing the book as a visual and narrative tribute, the Minister said it captures the spirit and execution of a model that integrates faith, heritage and modern rail infrastructure. The initiative was conceptualised and driven by Dr. Anup Dayanand, IRTS (Retd.), and aims to make pilgrimage travel accessible and affordable.

A Flagship Pilgrimage Initiative

The Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train is positioned as a flagship pilgrimage tourism project under Indian Railways. It shifts the Railways’ role from a transport provider to a facilitator of spiritual and cultural connectivity.

Under the scheme, over 30,000 devotees from Karnataka have undertaken journeys to Kashi and other sacred destinations at subsidised costs. The programme aligns with national campaigns such as “Dekho Apna Desh” and “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”, promoting national integration through shared cultural experiences.

Themed Circuits and Inclusive Packages

The train operates themed circuits including Kashi Darshan, Jyotirlinga Darshan, Shakti Peetha Yatra, Dakshina Yatra, Dwarka Yatra and Puri Jagannath Yatra. Each package is all-inclusive, covering rail travel, vegetarian meals, accommodation, local transport, tour guides and sightseeing.

Special emphasis has been placed on comfort and accessibility, particularly for senior citizens and first-time pilgrims. Policy support and State subsidies have helped ensure affordability.

Operational Success and Revenue Impact

As per official data, 46 trips have been completed, facilitating travel for 28,786 pilgrims. The initiative has generated approximately ₹25.57 crore in revenue for Indian Railways while expanding inclusive pilgrimage tourism.

Important Facts for Exams

• The Bharat Gaurav Policy promotes theme-based tourism trains by Indian Railways.
• “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat” aims to foster national integration.
• Pilgrimage circuits include Jyotirlinga and Shakti Peetha sites across India.
• All-inclusive tourism packages integrate travel, accommodation and local services.

Railways as a Cultural Enabler

The book chronicles the conception and execution of the Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train, presenting it as a “moving gallery of India.” By blending heritage, affordability and infrastructure, the initiative reflects Indian Railways’ evolving role in promoting spiritual tourism and cultural unity nationwide.