Gorakhpur, Mar 14 (UNI) Goraksha Peethadheeshwar and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Friday emphasised that no other country or religion in the world has a festival tradition as vast and rich as Sanatan Dharma.

Addressing a massive gathering during the inauguration of the Rangbhari Shobha Yatra of Lord Narsimha, organised by Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Shri Holikotsav Samiti at Ghantaghar, on the occasion of Holi, Yogi said, "Our faith is the foundation of Sanatan Dharma

and festivals are the soul of that faith."

He highlighted that India’s Sanatan festival tradition allows people from South to North and East to West to remain connected with enthusiasm and devotion throughout the year.

Extending his heartfelt Holi greetings to the people of the state, the CM said, “According to mythological beliefs, being born in India is a rare blessing. Even more so, being born in human form within Sanatan Dharma is an even greater fortune. Those who once criticised Sanatan have now witnessed its power in Prayagraj Maha Kumbh."

He said, "At Prayagraj Maha Kumbh, over 66 crore devotees became part of this divine experience by taking a dip in the sacred Triveni. No matter where a Sanatani is from, any region, any caste, speaking any language, they have enriched their lives through this dip of faith in Triveni."

Yogi said that the world observed the Prayagraj Maha Kumbh with awe and curiosity. "While the people of Sanatan Dharma united to deliver a message of harmony to the world through this grand event, an incredible display of dignity and discipline was witnessed in Prayagraj. Not a single incident occurred that could make Sanatanis bow their heads in shame."

He emphasised that those who attempt to tarnish Sanatan Dharma by raising issues of caste and untouchability should witness the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj.

"At the Maha Kumbh, whether it was a head of state or a common devotee, a revered religious leader or a humble village Yogi, all took the dip of faith at the same ghat, with the same devotion and spirit," he said.

He pointed out that those who malign Sanatan Dharma and seek to divide society are the very same people who opposed the construction of the Ram Temple, shielded individuals involved in cow smuggling, and doubted India's potential for development.

"Their intentions towards the nation and Sanatan Dharma are well known," Yogi said.

The CM reaffirmed the core principle of Sanatan Dharma, 'Yato Dharmastatah Jayah' (where there is Dharma, there will be victory).

"The path to victory demands rigorous sadhana and relentless effort. The tougher the sadhana, the greater the siddhi," he said.

Yogi said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India will only be realised when the nation stands united.

"When India stands as one, it will rise to be the best, and no force in the world will be able to halt its progress. Our sadhana must be dedicated at the feet of Bharat Mata," he said.

On the occasion of Holi, Yogi expressed his best wishes to all the people of the state and said that only one message of Holi, this country will move ahead only with unity.

He said that if the country remains united, then the vision of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat will definitely be fulfilled.

Referring to the incarnation of Lord Narasimha, he said that this is also a warning that the pride of people like Hiranyakashyap cannot stand and is also an example that if the path of truth is followed like devotee Prahlad, then God's grace will definitely shower.

After wishing Holi to the people, the CM performed the aarti of Lord Narasimha with rituals. He was offered coconut, gujiya along with flowers, fruits, colors, abir and gulal. After worshipping Lord Narasimha, he completely immersed himself in the atmosphere of Holi.

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