Ayodhya: In 2016-17, only about 2.34 lakh devotees visited Ayodhya throughout the year. Today, that number has skyrocketed to over 16 crore people visiting the city to seek the blessings of Lord Shri Ram, a testament to Ayodhya’s growing grandeur and spiritual significance. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath made these remarks during the grand inauguration of the Timeless Ayodhya Literature Festival, where he was present as the chief guest.
The event began with CM Yogi offering water to an Ashoka sapling amid chanting of Vedic mantras. Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Yogi said that Modi has harmoniously linked heritage with development, thereby rejuvenating India’s traditions and heralding a new beginning for cultural revival.
Welcomed traditionally in the royal premises of Ayodhya with Vedic chants, the Chief Minister described Ayodhya as the foundation of Sanatan Dharma. “It is not just a city but a source of inspiration for both religion and literature,” he said. He highlighted the contributions of Maharishi Valmiki and saint Tulsidas, who composed the Ramayana and Ramcharitmanas respectively, asserting that Ayodhya has always been a hub of literary and cultural excellence.
Ramayana: The World’s First Epic
Calling the Ramayana the world’s first epic that gave literature a new direction, Yogi Adityanath remarked, “Ayodhya is the heart of Sanatan Dharma. This is the land where Lord Manu laid the foundation of human values and where Lord Shri Ram, an incarnation of Vishnu, walked and lived.” He noted that Maharishi Valmiki immortalized the story of Ram, and even today, any creation associated with Ayodhya resonates deeply with people. “Ramayana and Ramcharitmanas continue to be read and revered in every corner of the world and in every Indian household,” he said.
Diwali Festivities Now Attract Millions
Referring to the Ram Mandir movement, CM Yogi stated that Ayodhya deserves the honor it has long been denied. “In 2017, when we first proposed celebrating Deepotsav (Festival of Lights) in Ayodhya, many questioned it. But today, lakhs and crores of devotees participate in the celebration,” he said.
Literature’s Role in Society and Challenges of the Digital Age
Highlighting the role of literature, the Chief Minister said, “Literature is the mirror of society. It not only preserves culture but also guides society in the right direction.” He expressed concern that the digital era is disrupting the tradition of reading and writing, but festivals like the Timeless Ayodhya Literature Festival can help revive this tradition. Congratulating the entire team behind the festival, CM Yogi said such initiatives will inspire future generations and elevate Indian literature to new heights. “This festival has proven that Ayodhya is not just a religious site, but also a sacred land for literature and culture,” he emphasized.
India Commands Respect Worldwide
Sharing an anecdote from a visit to Europe, CM Yogi recounted, “I once took a taxi ride and asked the driver where he was from. He said Punjab. When I asked where in Punjab, he hesitated and said he was from the Pakistan side of Punjab. When I asked why he initially said India, he replied that calling oneself Indian makes one feel safer, while admitting to being from Pakistan evokes uncertainty. This reflects today’s global sentiment—respect for India and hatred for those who propagated terrorism.”
Yogi remarked that today, people proudly identify themselves as Indian, especially from Uttar Pradesh, reflecting a shift in global perception.
“Yogi Redefined Politics,” Say Ministers
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Cabinet Minister Surya Pratap Shahi, MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan, and Yatindra Mishra, the convenor of the Ayodhya Literature Festival. Several speakers highlighted how CM Yogi has redefined the concept of politics through his leadership.
