Gorakhpur buzzed with festive fervor as Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended Holi greetings to Uttar Pradesh residents, proclaiming a state free from tension, fear, anarchy, and goondaism. Speaking at the Bhakt Prahlad Shobhayatra organized by the Holika Dahan Utsav Samiti in Pandeyhata, the Goraksh Peethadheeshwar emphasized that every citizen now feels secure and respected.
‘This sense of security and mutual respect embodies Ram Rajya,’ Yogi declared, aligning his vision with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aspirations for a developed India. He contrasted the current peace with pre-2014 chaos, when festivals triggered curfews, societal divisions, and rampant lawlessness that left daughters and traders vulnerable.
Today, Uttar Pradesh has transformed into a ‘festival state’ offering safety and convenience. No curfews, no riots—everything is thriving. Yogi highlighted the seamless Holi celebrations in Mathura-Vrindavan over the past 15 days, astonishing international visitors with their spontaneity.
Addressing critics who accused his government of division, the CM pointed to the massive, diverse crowd united in celebration, transcending caste barriers. He elaborated on the journey from disorder to discipline, evil to righteousness, mirroring the Holika legend where Lord Vishnu’s Narasimha avatar vanquished the demon Hiranyakashyap.
Yogi drew parallels between past mafias and mythological villains like Hiranyakashyap, Kansa, and Ravana, asserting that such forces yield only to decisive action—like a Narasimha, Krishna, or Ram. Post-speech, he performed aarti of Bhakt Prahlad’s image on the procession chariot, showered flowers, and joined the jubilant crowd in a flower Holi.
The CM also unveiled plans for Gorakhpur’s Heritage Corridor, set to become the state’s most beautiful stretch. Affected traders will get shops in Ghantaghar’s Bandhu Singh Park and a new complex near DIET. ‘Our double-engine government ensures no one is displaced; we provide opportunities for progress,’ he affirmed.
Once a congested trade hub linking eastern UP, Bihar, and Nepal, the corridor declined due to poor infrastructure. Revitalized with wider roads and facade lighting, it promises renewed prosperity. Yogi praised local traders for their cooperation, noting how grassroots development fuels statewide growth.