Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday stated that Sanatan traditions never aimed to forcibly dominate or enslave people, and those who attempted to destroy temples and pilgrimage sites eventually disappeared from history. He made these remarks while addressing devotees after participating in the consecration ceremony of Navnath idols and the Ashtaman Bhandara programme at Shri Shiv Gorakhnath Ashram in Baghpat.
Preservation of Spiritual Heritage
Yogi said that despite continuous attacks by foreign invaders, the country preserved its spiritual heritage. He noted, "Several invaders who attempted to destroy temples and pilgrimage sites associated with Sanatan faith vanished from history. At the same time, the religious centres they targeted were restored and re-established." Invoking the Sanskrit phrase "Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah," he emphasized that religion protects those who protect it. He cautioned against using religion for selfish purposes, warning that any harm caused to faith and culture would affect not only the present generation but also future generations.
Revival of Pilgrimage Centres
Yogi mentioned the reconstruction and reconsecration of the Somnath Temple after its destruction by Mahmud of Ghazni in 1026. He noted that the temple was reconsecrated in 1951 by India's first President, Rajendra Prasad. He also informed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Somnath Swabhiman Parv on the same day. Highlighting the revival of India's spiritual heritage under the Modi government, the CM referred to the redevelopment and restoration of major pilgrimage centres, including Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Ram Mandir, Mahakaleshwar Jyotirlinga, Kedarnath Temple, and Vindhyavasini Devi Temple.
Link to India's Nuclear Achievements
The CM linked the day to India's nuclear achievements, recalling how former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee conducted three nuclear tests under 'Operation Shakti' at Pokhran on the same date. He said India's strength symbolizes not only national capability but also global welfare.
Significance of Baghpat
Describing Baghpat as a place with Mahabharata-era significance, Yogi said it was among the five villages sought by Lord Krishna for the Pandavas from the Kauravas. He praised local seers and villagers for transforming the ashram into a major spiritual centre over the past four years.
Legacy of Guru Gorakhnath
Speaking on the legacy of Guru Gorakhnath, Yogi said that Nath yogis played a major role in keeping society united during periods of foreign rule. He explained that yogis travelled from village to village using devotional songs and folk instruments to awaken people and prepare them to resist invaders. "Yogis were not confined to caves, temples or meditation. Whenever religion and culture came under attack, they stood up and responded firmly," he said, adding that a true saint stands fearlessly in crisis.
