Baghpat, Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath delivered a powerful message on Sanatan Dharma, cultural revival, and national pride during the Nava Nath Murti Pran Pratishtha ceremony at Shri Shiv Gorakhnath Ashram in Baghpat.
Addressing devotees and saints, the Chief Minister said that India has never believed in forced expansion or domination, unlike historical invaders who attempted to destroy the country’s spiritual foundations. He asserted that while temples and pilgrimage sites were attacked in the past, they have been restored and “re-established with renewed glory,” whereas the identities and lineages of those who sought to erase Sanatan heritage have faded into obscurity.
“Those who tried to dismantle India’s temples and sacred sites are no longer remembered. Their existence has been erased by time,” he said, emphasizing the resilience of India’s civilizational ethos.
Message on Dharma and Responsibility
Invoking the principle of “Dharmo Rakshati Rakshitah”, CM Yogi stated that protecting Dharma ensures protection in return. He cautioned that misuse of religion for personal or political gain ultimately leads to destruction.
“Personal loss can be compensated, but damage to Dharma cannot be repaired. Its consequences affect both present and future generations,” he added, urging citizens not to allow harm to national or spiritual values under any circumstances.
Revival of Sacred Heritage
Highlighting India’s ongoing cultural resurgence, the Chief Minister referred to the restoration of major pilgrimage sites, including the reconstruction of the Somnath Temple, the development of the Kashi Vishwanath Dham, and the construction of the Ram Mandir.
He said these projects symbolize India’s civilizational pride and reaffirm the importance of reconnecting with historical and spiritual roots.
The Chief Minister also recalled significant national events linked to India’s assertion of strength, including the Somnath reconstruction movement initiated in 1951 under India’s first President Dr. Rajendra Prasad, and the nuclear tests conducted under Operation Shakti in Pokhran during the tenure of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
He further acknowledged the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in promoting India’s cultural and spiritual renaissance.
Baghpat’s Historical Significance
Describing Baghpat as a land rooted in the Mahabharata era, CM Yogi noted its mythological association with Lord Krishna’s peace proposal to the Kauravas. He said the region has transformed from a small settlement into a growing spiritual centre due to efforts by local saints and devotees.
He also highlighted the district’s contribution to public life, mentioning leaders such as former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh and other prominent personalities associated with governance, law enforcement, and public service.
Role of Guru Gorakhnath Tradition
Referring to Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath, CM Yogi said the Nath tradition played a crucial role in awakening society during periods of foreign domination. He noted that saints and yogis actively engaged in public outreach through devotional music and teachings to unite people and inspire resistance against injustice.
“A yogi is not confined to caves or temples. In times of crisis, a true saint stands fearless and responds decisively,” he said.
Event Participation
The ceremony was attended by several ministers, legislators, saints, and public representatives, including Uttar Pradesh ministers Jaswant Singh Saini and K.P. Malik, MPs, MLAs, and prominent religious leaders from across the country.
The event concluded with religious rituals and community offerings, marking the formal installation of the Nava Nath idols at the Gorakhnath Ashram complex
