Long-cherished wish fulfilled through Yogi government’s initiative; devotees express gratitude as they embark on Somnath pilgrimage

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath flagged off the Somnath Swabhiman Parv Yatra from Lucknow

Devotees from different districts of the state praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath

Lucknow, April 2026 : Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday flagged off the Somnath Swabhiman Yatra ‘Uttar Pradesh’ from Lucknow under the Somnath Swabhiman Parv. The journey, which began amid religious and cultural grandeur, witnessed great enthusiasm among devotees.

Accompanied by the sound of conch shells and Vedic chants, the special train gave a new dimension to the faith of the devotees. People from various districts of the state praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saying that the government has fulfilled a long-pending wish of common citizens.

Satish Kumar, a resident of Banti Kheda in Muzaffarnagar, appeared emotional. He said that he had long wished to visit the Somnath Temple but never got the opportunity. With the launch of this initiative, his dream has now been fulfilled. He expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, saying the government has understood the sentiments of ordinary people.

Bindu Ishika Singhania from Bareilly said, “The journey is not just a means of pilgrimage but also an initiative to strengthen Sanatan culture. It will help people from one state understand the culture of another, and the younger generation will connect with their traditions.” She thanked both Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Anant Tiwari from Azamgarh said, “The initiative is a boon for economically weaker people. Many individuals have devotion but are unable to undertake pilgrimages due to financial constraints. Now, they too will get the opportunity to visit Somnath Dham.”

Anant Rana from Meerut shared that he is visiting Somnath for the first time and said that devotees from rural areas will benefit greatly from this initiative. Devotees from Bijnor and Gorakhpur also welcomed the move, stating that the Yogi government is respecting the faith of all sections of society.

With the launch of the Somnath Swabhiman Yatra, Yogi government has conveyed that along with development, equal priority is being given to religious and cultural heritage.