Chief Minister and Gorakshpeethadhishwar Yogi Adityanath said that unity was the key to the nation’s safety.

Speaking at the coronation ceremony of Lord Shri Ram, organised by the Shri Shri Ramlila Committee in Aryanagar at Mansarovar Ramlila Ground on Saturday, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised that eliminating untouchability and discrimination is key to fostering unity and ensuring the safety of both individuals and the nation.

He urged the people to avoid the mistakes of the past that led to slavery and gave invaders the chance to destroy India’s religious places and divide society.

Extending his greetings on the auspicious occasion, Chief Minister Yogi highlighted the historical consequences of division, stating, “Due to a lack of unity during different periods of slavery, invaders were able to desecrate sacred temples like the Vishwanath temple in Kashi, the Ram temple in Ayodhya, and the Shri Krishna temple in Mathura. If we fall into slavery again, such situations can happen again.”

He further stressed that freedom is not only political, but also a symbol of cultural and spiritual independence. “We must remain united to honour the sacrifices of the martyrs who fought for our independence. Their sacrifices should not go in vain,” he said, calling for collective efforts to preserve the country’s rich heritage and safeguard its future.

Chief Minister Yogi urged people to overcome divisions based on caste, religion, language and untouchability, highlighting the importance of collective strength in promoting social harmony. He noted the recent developments in Ayodhya, where a grand temple dedicated to Lord Shri Ram has been built after 500 years.

The chief minister pointed out that historical divisions based on region, caste and religion were part of a conspiracy that still affects society today. “We must not allow these divisions to grow,” he remarked.

He urged everyone to unite for the nation’s progress, stating that personal interests should never outweigh national interests. “All our efforts should be in the name of the country,” he asserted, citing the movement for the construction of the Ayodhya temple as a source of inspiration for this mission.

The chief minister became visibly emotional while discussing the movement for the construction of the Ram temple, recalling the dreams of his revered Gurudev, Brahmalin Mahant Avedyanath ji Maharaj. He shared that his gurudev’s last wish was to witness the temple’s completion.

The chief minister praised the ongoing journey of preserving and developing India’s cultural heritage, attributing this progress to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted that Sanatanis and Indians, both within the country and abroad, take pride in these developments.

Reflecting on the past, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised that just five years ago, few believed that a temple for Lord Shri Ram would be constructed at his birthplace in Ayodhya. “Only a handful of Sanatanis, like us, firmly believed that the Shri Ram temple would indeed be built,” he said, expressing satisfaction that this dream has now become a reality.

The chief minister highlighted several significant achievements, including the successful realisation of the grand Vishwanath Dham in Kashi, the transformation of Maa Vindhyavasini Dham in Vindhyachal, and the vision of Ramrajya coming to life in Chitrakoot.

He also mentioned the restoration of the historical significance of Shukratirth, where the Bhagwat Katha was first held five thousand years ago, and the revitalisation of Naimisharanya, presenting it in a new light inspired by its mythological and Vedic heritage.

Chief Minister Yogi further highlighted the importance of India’s ancient heritage, dedicating the celebrations to the feet of Lord Shri Ram. He drew parallels between the present and the past, stating that the evening of Vijayadashami likely mirrored the moment in Treta Yug when Lord Shri Ram defeated Ravana, the embodiment of ‘adharma’, untruth and tyranny.

Expressing his pride in coronating Lord Shri Ram on behalf of Gorakshapeeth during this significant festival, Chief Minister Yogi remarked, “It is a matter of pride for me to have this opportunity, which is deeply connected to our heritage.”

He emphasised that thousands of years ago, Lord Vishnu incarnated as Shri Ram to establish dharma, protect the saints, and promote the welfare of humanity.

In his address, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised the dual significance of Vijayadashami, where Lord Shri Ram is crowned, and his aarti is performed while Ravana’s effigy is burned. “This dual celebration carries a profound message: those who act against humanity and commit injustices will face consequences, while those who uphold dharma, truth and justice will be honoured and revered, just as Shri Ram, Mata Janaki, Laxman, and Ram devotee Hanuman are celebrated,” he concluded.