Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a powerful address on Thursday, December 4, 2025, stating that the core identity of any nation is intrinsically linked to its cultural heritage, traditions, and the enduring legacy of its great personalities.
Culture as the Bedrock of National Unity
Speaking at the Founder’s Week Celebration of the Maharana Pratap Shiksha Parishad in Gorakhpur, the Chief Minister elaborated on this connection. He asserted that culture, national values, and unity are deeply interwoven. "When culture is weakened, unity and national identity also begin to erode," Adityanath warned.
He explained that culture is molded by a nation's core values and is further solidified during historic, revolutionary periods. These shared values, he noted, are celebrated by people across India through various festivals. Such celebrations play a crucial role in fostering national unity by dissolving regional and social differences, thereby upholding the spirit of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' (One India, Great India).
Inspiration Drawn from Historic Heroes
The UP CM further emphasized the inspirational role of India's legendary figures, especially during times of national crisis. "Whenever the country faces a crisis or a major challenge, the bravery and sacrifices of great heroes ignite new strength within us," he stated.
He specifically invoked the valour of warriors like Maharana Pratap, Chhatrapati Shivaji, Guru Gobind Singh, and Rani Lakshmibai, who laid down their lives defending the nation. Adityanath affirmed that their legacy continues to inspire every Indian citizen to this day.
Retired Lieutenant General Highlights Broader Patriotism
The event's chief guest, Lieutenant General Yogendra Dimri (Retd), Vice Chairman of the Uttar Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority, also shared his perspective on patriotism. He defined it as going beyond battlefield courage.
"Patriotism is not only about showing courage on the borders, but also about performing one’s duty with honesty, protecting the environment, serving society, and being a good citizen," Dimri remarked.
He praised the establishment of the Maharana Pratap Shiksha Parishad in Gorakhpur in 1932, during the British Raj, as a significant act of service to the nation. He noted that founding such an institution based on Indian cultural and educational values, alongside the establishment of Banaras Hindu University in 1916, was a bold move against colonial influence.
Lieutenant General Dimri expressed gratitude towards the parishad's founders—Mahant Digvijay Nath and Rashtra Sant Mahant Avedyanath—and acknowledged Chief Minister Adityanath for his support, highlighting the institution's continuous contribution to nation-building through education.
