VARANASI, April 4 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday called upon filmmakers to produce content that inspires society, cautioning against glorifying negative characters. He made the remarks at the inauguration of the three-day epic play 'Samrat Vikramaditya' at the Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW) ground in Varanasi in the presence of Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav. "There was a time when noble characters were portrayed as villains, and villains were projected as heroes through films. What was the result? Generations were getting spoiled. People lost their voice against injustice, oppression and exploitation because such ideals were not presented before the younger generation," Adityanath said. Emphasising the responsibility of cinema in shaping societal values, he stated, "I urge film directors and producers to make films that can inspire the present generation. If you present a dacoit as a hero, the youth will start considering that dacoit as their role model. Remember, never portray a dacoit as a hero." He said Indian cinema had historically played a positive role when it reflected the country's ideals, adding, "Whatever is presented to the current generation will shape them in the same manner." Earlier, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav, who also addressed the gathering, highlighted the legacy of Vikramaditya. "We are working together with the Uttar Pradesh government to strengthen cultural ties between the two states," he said. The play is being organised under the aegis of Vikramotsav 2026 with the aim of apprising the youths of the legacy of good governance and justice associated with Ujjain's Emperor Vikramaditya. The play held the audience spellbound as it brought to life the era of Vikramditya. It featured three grand stages, 18 horses, two chariots, four Camels, one palanquin and elephant each. The Maharaja Vikramaditya Research Chair (Shodhapeeth), Ujjain, organised the event. Madhya Pradesh chief minister Mohan Yadav conceptualised the grand theatrical production. Written by Padma Shri Dr Bhagwatilal Rajpurohit, produced by Rajesh Kushwaha, and directed by Sanjeev Malviya, Samrat Vikramaditya features a cast of over 200 artists. It depicts the saga of Vikramaditya from his birth to his coronation, along with the tales of Vikram and Betal, and the epic narrative of the resurgence of 'Sanatan Dharma. Following the installation of the Vikramaditya Vedic Clock in Ujjain, this clock is now being offered to Baba Vishwanath....