V. Somanna launches coffee table book on Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train at Rail Bhawan.

New Delhi, February 25, 2026: Union Minister of State for Railways and Jal Shakti V. Somanna, on February 23, 2026, launched the coffee table book “Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train: Journey of Thousand Shrines” at Rail Bhawan in New Delhi.

Speaking on the occasion, Somanna described the book as a rich visual and narrative tribute to one of Indian Railways’ most impactful cultural and spiritual tourism initiatives.

V. Somanna said the publication beautifully captures the spirit, vision, and collective effort behind a pioneering model that seamlessly integrates faith, culture, heritage, and modern rail infrastructure.

The Minister noted that the initiative was conceptualized and driven by Dr. Anup Dayanand, IRTS (Retd), whose leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the project.

V. Somanna highlighted affordable pilgrimage for thousands:

V. Somanna termed it historic that under the Bharat Gaurav Scheme, more than 30,000 devotees from Karnataka have been able to fulfil their lifelong dream of visiting Kashi and other sacred destinations at an affordable cost.

The book presents the Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train as a “moving gallery of India,” offering detailed insights into its thoughtfully designed coaches, onboard amenities, curated spiritual circuits, and end-to-end passenger experience.

It highlights how comfort, accessibility, and affordability were prioritized—especially for senior citizens and first-time pilgrims—through supportive policies and state subsidies.

At its core, the book chronicles the conception, evolution, and successful execution of the Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train under the Bharat Gaurav Policy.

Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train: A flagship initiative:

The Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train stands as a flagship pilgrimage tourism initiative under Indian Railways’ Bharat Gaurav Policy.

The project repositions the Railways from being merely a transporter to an enabler of tourism, cultural exchange, and spiritual connectivity.

The Initiative aligns closely with national programs such as Dekho Apna Desh and Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, promoting national integration through shared spiritual experiences.

Through themed journeys including Kashi Darshan, Jyotirlinga Darshan, Shakti Peetha Yatra, Dakshina Yatra, Dwarka Yatra, and Puri Jagnnath Yatra, the train connects pilgrims from Karnataka to major spiritual destinations across the country.

The all-inclusive travel packages cover rail transportation, vegetarian meals, accommodation, local transport, tour guides, and sightseeing, ensuring a seamless, dignified, and hassle-free pilgrimage experience.

Strong social and economic impact:

As per the latest data, the Karnataka Bharat Gaurav Train has successfully operated 46 trips, carrying 28,786 pilgrims, and generating approximately Rs 25.57 crore in revenue for Indian Railways—while simultaneously advancing the broader objective of inclusive and accessible pilgrimage tourism.

Also Read: Indian Railways unveils train timetable 2026: 122 new trains, speed boost for 549 services.

EOM.