GORAKHPUR, Mar 13: Goraksha Peethadheeshwar and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Gorakhpur and the entire state on the occasion of Holi, the festival of social harmony, joy, and enthusiasm.
Addressing the gathering at the Bhakt Prahlad Shobha Yatra organized by the Holika Dahan Utsav Samiti, the CM emphasised that the spirit of unity and goodwill embedded in festivals is the greatest strength of Sanatan Dharma.
He said, “After demonstrating the immense power of Sanatan Dharma to the world through the divine and grand Prayagraj Maha Kumbh, followers of Sanatan across the country and beyond are now reaffirming the message of truth, unity and goodwill through the tradition of Holika Dahan and the Holi festival.”
Extending his best wishes to the people of UP, Yogi stated that all Sanatani festivals, including Holi, convey the same message of Satyamev Jayate (Truth alone triumphs).
“Truth always prevails, no matter the circumstances. One may have to wait, but truth cannot be defeated, denied or destroyed,” he said.
He emphasised that the path of truth is the path of righteousness and shortcuts or opportunism cannot lead to lasting success.
Highlighting the global impact of the divine and grand Maha Kumbh, the CM said, “Prayagraj Maha Kumbh showcased that if one wishes to witness the discipline of religion, unity and goodwill, they should look at the traditions of Sanatan Dharma. Maha Kumbh was not just a religious congregation but a great festival of discipline, where over 66 crore devotees gathered in one Sangam area for 45 days, displaying unmatched order and devotion. This is the true victory of Sanatan Dharma.”
He said that the event witnessed the participation of devotees, diplomats, heads of state, ministers from across the country and representatives from over 100 nations.
“The President, Vice President, Prime Minister, several Union Ministers, Governors, CMs, judges of the Supreme Court and High Courts, along with eminent personalities from various fields, expressed their desire to be part of the Maha Kumbh and fulfilled it,” he said.
Yogi said that people from every faith, religion, caste and region took a dip in the sacred Triveni, symbolising the unifying spirit of Sanatan traditions.
“Just as Maha Kumbh conveyed the message of harmony and unity, Holi too reinforces the spirit of togetherness by dissolving differences,” he said.
He praised the exceptional hospitality of the people of UP during Maha Kumbh and commended the dedication of personnel from various departments in making the event a grand success.
Appealing for the preservation of cultural traditions, the CM urged people to revive traditional Holi songs and folk tales.
“These folk traditions are an integral part of our history, and there is a need to bring them back. By next year, efforts should be made to form community groups in different localities to keep the tradition of Holi songs alive,” he said.
Referring to the legend of Holika Dahan, the protection of Bhakt Prahlad and the divine incarnation of Lord Narasimha to vanquish Hiranyakashyap, he warned people against arrogance.
“If not today, then tomorrow, one is bound to face the consequences of their actions,” he said.
Yogi urged everyone to draw inspiration from Bhakt Prahlad’s unwavering devotion and walk the path of righteousness. “The highest form of devotion is having a deep sense of dedication towards our nation,” he said.
On the occasion of Holi, the CM appealed to people to celebrate with harmony and uphold the eternal traditions of thousands of years.
“Festivals become more joyous when celebrated with unity and mutual respect. Do not apply colour on anyone without their consent and avoid putting colour on those who are unwell,” he said.
The CM encouraged people to use Holika Dahan as an opportunity to burn away arrogance and negative tendencies from their lives. He declared the day as a momentous occasion for the youth, announcing the results of the police constable recruitment.
He shared that 60,244 new constables have been selected to join the police force, including over 12,000 women, marking a significant step towards gender inclusivity in law enforcement.
Following his address, the Chief Minister performed the aarti of Bhakt Prahlad on the chariot specially adorned for the Holika Dahan procession.
He then showered flowers on Prahlad’s image and joined the crowd in celebrating Holi with a vibrant floral display, adding to the festive spirit.
The excitement and enthusiasm of the gathered devotees made the event a spectacle to behold. A large number of devotees participated in the celebrations, making it a grand and memorable occasion.
(UNI)
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