Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has praised the rich festival culture of Sanatan Dharma, claiming that there is no other nation or religion in the world that has such a rich and lively set of festivals. "Our religion is the basis of Sanatan Dharma, and it is all about its festivals," he said.
Addressing the inauguration of Lord Narasimha's Rangbhari Shobha Yatra on Friday, CM Yogi mentioned how such festivals bring people from all over the country—from the North to South and from the East to the West—together throughout the year. The lavish procession, held by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Shri Holikotsav Samiti, began at Ghantaghar in Varanasi during Holi celebrations.
Reiterating the festive wishes, CM Yogi said, "As per our ancient scriptures, India is rare to be born in, and human form in Sanatan Dharma is even rarer." He added that whoever used to criticize Sanatan Dharma has now seen its tremendous impact, citing Prayagraj Mahakumbh as a proof of its global reach.
At Mahakumbh, more than 66 crore devotees have bathed in the sacred Triveni Sangam, strengthening their beliefs. Sanatanis everywhere, cutting across geographical and caste divisions, benefited by nourishing their lives with this holy practice," he added.
Global Influence of Maha Kumbh
Recalling the global echo of the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh, CM Yogi added, "The world witnessed in wonder and interest. Sanatan Dharma conveyed a strong message of togetherness, showcasing unparalleled discipline and harmony. There was not a single incident that defiled the purity of the event."
Stepping forward in support of Sanatan Dharma against its critics, the CM invited them to observe the Maha Kumbh before making unfounded accusations regarding casteism and untouchability. "In Prayagraj, be it a head of state or an ordinary devotee, a respected religious figure or a village yogi, everyone took a dip at the same ghat with equal fervor," he underscored.
He also aimed at the critics who earlier were against the Ram Temple construction, were backing cow smuggling, or questioned India's development prospects. "The intentions of such people towards the country and Sanatan Dharma are well known," he stated.
Sanatan Dharma's Eternal Truth: "Yato Dharmastatah Jayah"
Quoting the fundamental doctrine of Sanatan Dharma, CM Yogi said, "Sanatan Dharma has always declared—'Yato Dharmastatah Jayah' (Where there is Dharma, there is victory). Success requires unshakeable commitment and sincere effort. The more difficult the spiritual practice (sadhana), the greater the reward."
He reiterated that the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) can be achieved only if the country is united. "When India unites, it becomes the best. No power can keep it down," he asserted, calling people to commit themselves to working for the nation.
Holi: A Celebration of Unity and Strength
Wishing his warmest greetings on Holi, CM Yogi emphasized the festival's true significance: "India's advancement is based on harmony. If we remain united, the vision of 'One India, Shrestha Bharat' will become a reality."
Speaking of Lord Narasimha's incarnation, he said it was a warning and an inspiration. "The pride of the likes of Hiranyakashyap cannot last. But if we tread the path of truth, like devotee Prahlad did, divine benedictions will always accompany us," he stated.
Grand Festivities and Rituals
RSS State Pracharak Ramesh Ji also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the significance of this year’s Holi following the historic Maha Kumbh. He commended CM Yogi’s leadership, under which the world witnessed the grandeur of Sanatan Dharma and its cultural significance.
After his speech, CM Yogi participated in the traditional ‘aarti’ of Lord Narasimha, offering prayers with flowers, fruits, abir, gulal, and coconut. He actively joined in the Holi celebrations, showering flower petals and colors on the enthusiastic crowd, marking a vibrant and spiritual start to the festivities.
Read also| No religion has such rich tradition of festivals as Sanatan Dharma, Says Yogi Adityanath
