CM Yogi inaugurates the 5251st Sri Krishna Janmotsav in Mathura

Mathura : In a fiery address during the 5251st Sri Krishna Janmotsav, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath sharply criticized the opposition for their silence on the recent incidents in Bangladesh, accusing them of being more concerned about their vote banks than the plight of Hindus in the neighboring country.

During the event, he stated that while the opposition is quick to speak out on global issues, they have remained conspicuously silent about the persecution of Hindus and the demolition of temples in Bangladesh. “They see Palestine but turn a blind eye to Bangladesh because they fear losing their vote bank,” the CM remarked.

CM Yogi inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for 178 development projects worth Rs 1037 crores for the region on the occasion. Among the highlights were the inauguration of the Radha Rani temple ropeway in Barsana, the launch of a cruise service on the Yamuna river under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, and the opening of the Panchjanya Auditorium.

The Chief Minister also released a bhajan album by film actress Padmini Kolhapure and the Meera Granth, compiled by the UP Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad. He extended his best wishes for Nandotsav and Sri Krishna Janmashtami.

The CM emphasized the inseparable connection between Sanatan Dharma and India, highlighting that the challenges facing one are inherently linked to the other. He urged the revered saints and spiritual leaders to unite society in the face of these challenges, warning that any division within could lead to the success of conspiracies aimed at destabilizing both Sanatan Dharma and the nation.

He expressed concern over the ongoing persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh, where monasteries and temples are being demolished. He stressed that the preservation of scriptures, philosophy, and spiritual practices is contingent upon the safety of Sanatan Dharma, the nation, and the Hindu community. “We must unite to expose and counter those divisive forces that seek to fracture society for their petty interests,” CM Yogi said.

He criticized those who prioritize politics over national integrity, contrasting this with his own government’s stance that the nation is paramount. “For us, the nation comes first, and we are prepared to make any sacrifice to protect it,” he affirmed.

Reflecting on history, CM Yogi reminded the public that Bangladesh was once part of India before 1947 and recounted the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers during the 1971 war. He noted that thousands of Indian soldiers laid down their lives to liberate Bangladesh, forcing the surrender of 95,000 Pakistani soldiers in what he described as the greatest military victory in world history.

He emphasized the global attraction to the rich heritage of Uttar Pradesh, drawing parallels with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s focus on development and cultural legacy. He mentioned that no other country, religion, or sect can claim an origin as ancient as that of Sanatan Dharma, with its roots extending far beyond the timelines of other faiths, some of which date back only 1,400 to 3,000 years.

“This is why we say that Sanatan Dharma is the only eternal religion on earth,” the CM remarked, highlighting the long and unbroken tradition that has been preserved by revered saints and their disciples through religious events, stories, manuscripts, and the Guru-Shishya tradition.

CM Yogi also reflected on the transformation of Uttar Pradesh over the past seven years. Once known for hooliganism, riots, and anarchy, the state is now celebrated for its vibrant cultural festivals such as Rangotsav, Janmotsav, and Janmashtami, he stated.

He pointed out that Uttar Pradesh is now recognized for its significant contributions to India’s development, with achievements such as the installation of Ram Lalla in Ayodhya after a five-century wait, the rejuvenation of Kashi, and the successful organization of Vaishno Kumbh and Prayagraj Kumbh.

“Today, Uttar Pradesh is a state of unlimited potential,” CM Yogi said, noting that the state, once seen as a barrier to development, is now a key contributor to India’s growth engine, balancing development with its rich heritage.

The CM expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of the region for electing Hema Malini as their representative for the third consecutive time. He commended the veteran actress and MP for her unwavering dedication to the development and cultural preservation of Braj.

CM Yogi recalled how, upon entering Parliament for the first time, Hema Malini immediately raised the issue of the Yamuna’s purity as well as highlighted the significance of the 84 Kosi Parikrama, emphasizing its importance for the physical and spiritual growth of the Braj region.

The Chief Minister noted that Hema Malini is deeply committed to the development of Braj, frequently visiting Lucknow and Delhi to advocate for local projects and constantly monitoring progress through calls. He also praised other public representatives and the Braj Tirtha Vikas Parishad for their contributions to the region.

Highlighting the unique identity of Braj, CM Yogi described it as a land synonymous with faith, art, culture, and love. He emphasized that the projects inaugurated and launched during the event are all deeply connected to Braj’s rich heritage. Among these initiatives, he mentioned the Panchjanya Auditorium, which will accommodate up to 1,000 spectators, and the Shaheed Laxman Memorial Bhawan, a tribute to India’s heritage and freedom fighters.

He further highlighted the ongoing work to renovate Kusum Sarovar, connect it to Loudsound, and the commencement of the ropeway project at Radha Rani Temple in Barsana. Additionally, the inauguration of Govardhan Tehsil Bhawan and the upcoming construction of Vasudev Vatika, a Rs 45 crore project, were highlighted as key milestones in the region’s development. A Tourist Facility Center in Barsana has also been approved, further enhancing Braj’s appeal as a cultural and spiritual destination.

On this occasion, state government ministers Chaudhary Laxmi Narayan, Jaiveer Singh, Sandeep Singh, film actress and Mathura MP Hema Malini, Rajya Sabha MP Tejveer Singh, Mayor Vinod Agarwal, District Panchayat Chairman Kishan Chaudhary, MLAs Shrikant Sharma, Puran Prakash, Meghshyam Singh, Rajesh Chaudhary, Legislative Council member Omprakash Singh, Yogesh Chaudhary etc were present.