UP Congress Chief Ajay Rai Undertakes Sacred Panchkoshi Yatra in Kashi, Reaffirms Commitment to Faith and Public Service
Varanasi/Lucknow: Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee President and former minister Ajay Rai undertook the sacred Panchkoshi Yatra in Varanasi, reaffirming his commitment to Sanatan traditions, spiritual values, and public service.
The pilgrimage began with prayers at the revered Bade Ganesh Temple in Maidagin, where Rai sought blessings before proceeding to the temple of Kashi Kotwal, Baba Kal Bhairav. There, he offered prayers for protection from all obstacles and sought blessings for the well-being of the people.
Continuing the spiritual journey, Rai visited Manikarnika Ghat and offered prayers at the shrine of Manikarnikeshwar Mahadev and Goddess Manikarnika, revered as a manifestation of divine Shakti. He also performed rituals at the sacred Chakrapushkarini Kund (Manikarnika Kund), believed in Hindu tradition to have been created by Lord Vishnu’s divine chakra.
Praying for peace, prosperity, and protection for the nation and the state, Rai said, “May Mahadev, Mata Manikarnika, and Baba Kal Bhairav bless everyone, make this journey auspicious, and protect the country and Uttar Pradesh.”
Pilgrimage Through Sacred Sites of Kashi
The yatra proceeded from Manikarnika Ghat to its first halt at Skandvash, where Rai offered prayers and performed Jalabhishek at the ancient Kardameshwar Mahadev Temple, one of Kashi’s oldest and architecturally significant shrines.
Speaking during the pilgrimage, Rai said that devotion permeates every corner of Kashi and fills devotees with spiritual energy.
The second stop of the journey was at Rajatalab, where he offered prayers at the revered Bhimachandi Temple. The pilgrimage then moved to the sacred banks of the Varuna River, reaching its third halt at Rameshwar Mahadev.
Describing the visit as spiritually enriching, Rai said the temple holds immense significance as the Shiva Lingam is believed to have been established by Lord Rama during the Treta Yuga.
“Faith and service remain my lifelong commitment, and this spiritual resolve will continue uninterrupted,” he said.
Blending Spirituality and Public Outreach
The fourth stage of the Panchkoshi Parikrama took Rai to Shivpur, where he paid obeisance at Kapileshwar Mahadev and the revered Pancho Pandava shrine.
Throughout the journey, Rai interacted with local residents, saints, youth, and elderly citizens. He described the blessings and goodwill received from people along the route as his greatest strength.
“The affection and blessings of elders, saints, and young people are my real wealth,” he said.
Journey Concludes at Kapildhara
The Panchkoshi Yatra concluded at its final destination, Kapildhara, where Rai offered prayers at Kapileshwar Mahadev, a shrine traditionally associated with Sage Kapil.
Reflecting on the pilgrimage, he described it as a spiritually fulfilling experience that strengthened his resolve toward public service.
“This journey may be physically demanding, but it is spiritually enriching. Serving the sacred land of Kashi and its people is my highest duty,” Rai said.
The Panchkoshi Yatra is one of the most revered religious pilgrimages associated with Varanasi, encompassing several ancient temples and sacred sites that hold deep significance in Hindu tradition. Rai’s participation in the yatra underscored his connection with the cultural and spiritual heritage of Kashi while reaffirming his commitment to serving the people of the region.
