Gorakhpur : Chief minister Yogi Adityanath said on Wednesday that revered saints of Gorakshpeeth played a pivotal role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement and devoted their lives to the cause of the Ram temple, society and the nation.
He said Mahant Digvijaynath was present when Ram Lalla was manifest in Ayodhya , while Mahant Avaidyanath led the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mukti Yagya Samiti campaign for the liberation of the site. “Great personalities move in harmony with the needs of society, the nation and their times,” the chief minister said. Yogi described steadfastness as the key to success and said the lives of both saints continue to inspire generations. Drawing parallels with Lord Shiva, he said devotees must remain balanced in favourable and adverse circumstances alike and work for public welfare by overcoming social contradictions. He said Mahant Avaidyanath carried forward the ideals of Mahant Digvijaynath through his efforts to unite Hindu society, including initiatives such as the ‘sahbhoj’ campaign. Highlighting their contribution to education, Yogi said the two saints worked to expand quality education, skill development, sports promotion and student welfare through educational institutions, scholarships and hostel facilities. Among the speakers, Mahant Balaknath of Rohtak said Gorakshpeeth strengthened the identity of Sanatan culture and instilled a sense of national duty. Mayor Manglesh Srivastava said the lives of both saints were dedicated to national service, educational awakening and public welfare.
Addressing a tribute meeting on the 12th death anniversary of Mahant Avaidyanath and the concluding day of the week-long memorial programme held in memory of Mahant Digvijaynath and Mahant Avaidyanath at Gorakhnath Temple, Yogi recalled the contribution of both leaders to the Ram temple movement. Jagadguru Ramanandacharya Ramkamalacharya described Mahant Avaidyanath as a visionary saint whose role in the Ram temple movement would be remembered for generations. Several religious leaders, public representatives, academicians and social organisations paid tribute during the programme.