Yogi Adityanath Criticizes Opposition for Discrimination Claims During Chhath Puja

Lucknow, November 15 (Daily Kiran) : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath recently took a strong stance against opposition parties, accusing them of being enemies of society and culture. He stated that those who see hypocrisy in Durga Puja and the Kanwar Yatra, and who seek to find discrimination during the Chhath festival, are misguided.

Speaking at the evening Arghya ceremony organized by the All India Bhojpuri Society at the banks of the Gomti River, Adityanath expressed his wishes for prosperity and well-being for the people of the state as he offered prayers to the setting sun. He also paid tribute to the late Padma Vibhushan awardee Sharda Sinha, a renowned folk singer who popularized Chhath songs.

During the event, the Chief Minister praised the efforts of the organizing committee members, including Prabhunath Rai, Manoj Singh, Ved Prakash, and Ambrish Rai, for their dedication to cleanliness and the grandeur of the celebration. The committee members honored Adityanath with flowers and a commemorative plaque. Additionally, he presented a shawl and memento to the celebrated folk singer Malini Awasthi.

Adityanath reflected on the changes in the state since 2017, noting that before his administration, Uttar Pradesh was plagued by disturbances, with little regard for safety or cleanliness at public gatherings. He emphasized that the state has transformed into a peaceful place for celebrations, with millions participating in festivals like Chhath, Diwali, and the grand Deepotsav in Ayodhya.

He highlighted the significance of Chhath as a festival that expresses gratitude to nature, water, and the Sun God. The Chief Minister noted that this festival teaches lessons of faith, purity, and discipline, as mothers undertake rigorous fasting for the welfare of their families and society. He praised the unity displayed during the festival, where people from all backgrounds come together to offer prayers.

Adityanath acknowledged the contributions of families from Purvanchal and Bihar who have settled in Lucknow, stating that their entrepreneurship has significantly contributed to the state’s development. He affirmed that Uttar Pradesh’s identity is rooted in its inclusive culture and unity, rather than any single language or region.

The event concluded with Malini Awasthi captivating the audience with a song dedicated to Chhathi Mai. Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak congratulated everyone and noted the growing popularity of the festival, which has now become a major celebration in Lucknow, unlike a few decades ago when only a few celebrated it.