Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath began his three-day tour to Uttarakhand on Thursday, arriving in Pauri Garhwal and participating in a religious ceremony at Talla Banas village in Yamkeshwar. He participated in the ‘Prana Pratishtha’ of idols at Vanvasi Shri Ram Temple and Vasini Devi Temple, engaging with local devotees and emphasising the importance of preserving religious and cultural heritage for society’s spiritual growth.
He offered prayers at the Maa Garhwasini Temple and participated in the ‘Prana Pratishtha’ ceremony.
Addressing the gathering, he said, “India’s spiritual traditions promote restraint, service, and dedication.”
He asserted that preserving and reviving religious sites goes beyond faith—“they are a collective responsibility toward our cultural and historical heritage.”
He further noted that religious sites are not just places of worship but living symbols of India’s rich cultural legacy. Stressing the need for collective efforts to safeguard these sites, he praised Uttarakhand as the sacred ‘Devbhoomi’ (Land of the Gods), revered by saints, ascetics, and sages.
He remarked that the spiritual energy of this land continues to guide the entire nation.
Jagar singer Pritam Barthwan and folk artiste Madhuri Badthwal mesmerised the audience with their soulful renditions. The event’s organiser, Alam Singh Negi, and his wife, Darshini Devi, presented Yogi with a grand trident.
Demonstrating his commitment to environmental conservation, CM Yogi, alongside the villagers of Talla Banas, planted rudraksha saplings.
He underscored the dual significance of the rudraksha tree, not only as a sacred symbol but also as a vital contributor to ecological balance. He encouraged collective participation in preserving nature by urging the local community to engage in afforestation efforts.
The chief minister also unveiled a towering 100-foot-high tricolour at Maha Yogi Guru Gorakhnath Degree College. He described the national flag as a symbol of India’s honour and dignity, stating that this monumental tricolour would instil patriotism while reinforcing the message of unity and integrity for future generations.