A day after Deepotsav, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath began his day on Thursday with a visit to Hanumangarhi, where he prayed to Bajrangbali.
After performing the rituals at Hanumangarhi, he proceeded to Ramjanmabhoomi, where he prayed to Lord Ram Lala for the happiness and health of the people.
Following his prayers, the Chief Minister visited the Meerapur Bulandi Dalit Basti in Abhiram Das Ward, where he distributed sweets and clothes to Dalit women on the occasion of Deepawali. He distributed chocolates to children as well. The joy on the children's faces was evident as they received treats from the Chief Minister.
Speaking to the media later, Chief Minister Adityanath remarked on the significance of Diwali, recalling how Ayodhya was illuminated with lamps in Treta Yuga after the 14-year exile of Lord Ram.
He emphasised that this festival continues to resonate with devotees across the country. "This year is particularly special, as it marks the return of Lord Ram to his rightful abode after a 500-year gap," he said.
The Chief Minister highlighted that Diwali symbolises the spread of knowledge, faith, and prosperity. "I hope this festival inspires enthusiasm and joy among the people of our state and all followers of Sanatan Dharma," he said, expressing his gratitude for being able to connect with the Hindu community during this auspicious time.
After the celebrations in the Dalit colony, he visited Karsevakpuram to meet local sants, thanking them for their support in organising Deepotsav and wishing them a Happy Diwali.
He said, "Deepotsav has become synonymous with Ayodhya and honours our country on the global stage."
He also said, “The government has fulfilled the aspirations of the citizens and sants of Ayodhya. Now, it is the collective responsibility of everyone to elevate this honour to new heights.”
He warned that this was not a time for complacency. "Those who remain idle will miss out. We must avoid divisions based on caste, opinion, language, or religion, as such divisions will only weaken us. Our heritage and nation are secure now, and we must boldly counter anyone who questions our existence. The future of India is intertwined with Sanatan Dharma, and our identity should be defined by our commitment to service rather than by mere advertisements,” he said.
He paid heartfelt tributes to those who sacrificed their lives for the Ram Temple.
During his visit, the Chief Minister also met with Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust President Nritya Gopal Das Maharaj and visited the Mani Ram Das Cantonment to enquire about the well-being of its residents.
Additionally, he met Suresh Das Ji Maharaj at Digambar Akhara and Kishore Das Ji Maharaj at Bada Bhakt Mal, where he was honoured with a shawl. Mahant Awadhesh Das and other sants were present during these meetings.
‘Pahalgam incident deeply disturbing & tragic’: Former Pakistan PM Imran Khan
Former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday termed the Pahalgam terror attack as disturbing & tragic and also condoled the victims and their families.
Congress finally deletes 'Gayab' post targeting PM Modi after outrage
Under fire from the BJP over its social media post targeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Congress finally, on Tuesday, took down the controversial post.
Guterres calls EAM Jaishankar, Pak PM Sharif; stresses pursuing justice in Pahalgam terror attack
Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stressed the importance of pursuing justice in the Pahalgam terrorist attack while speaking with External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Prime Minister Muhammad Shebaz Sharif, his Spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said on Tuesday.
Congress organises ‘Save Constitution’ rallies across NE states
The opposition Congress has been organising ‘Samvidhan Bachao’ (Save Constitution) campaign in the northeastern states. Claiming that the Constitution is in danger under the BJP-led Central government, the opposition Congress held a massive rally in Agartala on Tuesday.
RSS chief Bhagwat meets PM Modi after security huddle: Signs of a hard-hitting response in the works
In a significant political development, RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat met Prime Minister Narendra Modi at his official residence at 7, Lok Kalyan Marg on Tuesday evening.
What PM Modi's free hand to armed forces against terror means for cross-border action?
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unambiguous message during a high-level security meeting - ‘India is determined to deliver a crushing blow to terrorism’ - marks more than just a strong statement of resolve.
Justice BR Gavai appointed as next Chief Justice of India
Justice Gavai was elevated as a Judge of the Supreme Court on May 29, 2019. Appointed as Additional Judge of the Bombay High Court in November 2003, he became a permanent Judge in November 2005.
Three more Bangladeshi nationals held in Tripura
The Tripura Frontier of the Border Security Force (BSF) on Tuesday apprehended three Bangladeshi nationals, including a woman, for illegally entering India, officials said.