Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath described the Maha Kumbh as the biggest event in the world that symbolises unity.
He emphasised the significance of Sanatan dharma, likening it to a banyan tree. “Sanatan dharma is like a vast and majestic banyan tree. It should never be compared to mere shrubs or bushes,” he stated.
During his visit to Prayagraj on Saturday, the chief minister attended an event organised by the All-India Avadhoot Bhesh Barah Panth-Yogi Mahasabha.
Addressing the event he said, “While the world may have different sects and forms of worship, there is only one true religion – Sanatan dharma which is the essence of humanity. In India, all forms of worship, though linked to various sects and traditions, are deeply rooted in Sanatan dharma, sharing a common goal.”
Referring to the ongoing Maha Kumbh, Chief Minister Yogi said, “This sacred event is an opportunity to deliver a unified message to the world. As Prime Minister Narendra Modi often says, the message of Maha Kumbh is that unity ensures the nation remains unbroken.”
He further highlighted the importance of national security, saying, “If India is safe, we are all safe. If India faces a crisis, it will impact Sanatan dharma, and no sect or tradition within the country will feel secure. To prevent such a situation, spreading the message of unity is essential.”
In his address, the chief minister expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the Maha Kumbh celebrations. He praised the immense devotion shown by crores of devotees who took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam of the Ganga, Yamuna and Saraswati rivers during the auspicious days of Paush Purnima and Makar Sankranti. He noted that the positive comments from these devotees have opened the eyes of the world.
The chief minister also echoed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision, saying, “This is India’s century. For India to reach new heights in every field, representatives from all sectors must fulfill their duties with honesty and dedication. While politicians serve in their realm, the army secures the borders, and our revered saints contribute to the religious world.”
Chief Minister Yogi highlighted that Sanatan dharma spread across the world not through force, but through goodwill and positive actions. He pointed out that in South East Asia, wherever Sanatan dharma reached, it attracted people through its values and ideals, and many nations proudly embraced the traditions of Lord Ram, Lord Krishna and Lord Buddha.
He mentioned that in every corner of the world, India’s influence can be seen in some form. “We have emerged from an era of darkness and are now moving forward,” he said.
Chief Minister Yogi spoke with great pride about the ongoing Maha Kumbh, describing it as an event that is being celebrated with immense devotion. He stated that crores of devotees have gathered at the Triveni Sangam, with two crore people present at the event as of Saturday. “The roads are completely blocked, and this will continue. In the last 10 days, more than 10 crore devotees have taken the holy dip in the sacred waters of the Triveni Sangam, and in the next 35 days, the number is expected to reach 45 crore,” he said.
He highlighted the extraordinary scale of the event, stating that no other country in the world can invite 45 crore people to an interim city and send out a message of unity. “The Maha Kumbh is a spiritual event that sends the message of unity, inviting people from all corner of the world. It’s a place where no one has to go hungry. In any akhara or camp here, people will receive food, blessings and prasadam,” he added.
The chief minister emphasised the power of Sanatan dharma, saying, “Here, no one asks about caste, sect or religion. The only thing that matters is faith. People are not worried about where to stay, where to sleep, or what to eat. They simply pick up their bags and journey here. This is the strength of Sanatan dharma and our revered saints.”
The chief minister acknowledged the positive atmosphere surrounding the Maha Kumbh but also warned of the challenges that lie ahead. He emphasised the importance of maintaining unity within the country and society, urging everyone to resist attempts to divide through language or other means.
“We must not let anyone’s conspiracy disturb the unity of our society,” he said and urged people to refrain from making negative comments at any level.
He emphasised that as society grows stronger, no power in the world will be able to challenge the unity and integrity of the nation.
Chief Minister Yogi also visited Shri Guru Goraksha Nath Akhara at the Maha Kumbh and performed a ceremonial worship of the Dharm Dhwaj.
He also held discussions with the Siddha Yogeshwars from across the country, according to a state government’s statement.