Gorakhpur’s Holi showcases social harmony under Gorakshapeethadhishwar’s leadership

Gorakhpur : The festival of colors, Holi, is not just a celebration of joy and festivity in Gorakhpur but also a strong reflection of social harmony under the leadership of Gorakshpeethadhishwar and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

The Nath tradition, deeply rooted in social welfare and unity, has long upheld the ideals of eradicating caste discrimination and bridging social divides. This vision was carried forward in modern times by Brahmaleen Mahant Digvijayanath and Brahmaleen Mahant Avaidyanath, and today, CM Yogi continues their legacy.

Holi, a festival symbolizing joy and togetherness, plays a significant role in Gorakshpeeth’s mission of social unity. The grand Holi celebrations in Gorakhpur, led by the Gorakshpeeth, stand out for their emphasis on inclusivity, breaking barriers of caste and social divisions.

The historic city of Gorakhpur, home to Guru Gorakhnath’s sacred site, witnesses a vibrant and inclusive celebration of Holi. The two major processions—Holika Dahan on March 13 and Holikotsav (Rangbhari procession of Lord Narasimha) on March 14— will attract attention across the state, carrying a message of unity and brotherhood.

For decades, Gorakshpeeth has actively participated in these processions, making them a symbol of equality and harmony. Despite his responsibilities as Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath has continued to lead these celebrations, reinforcing his commitment to social unity. This year, he will once again join the processions, strengthening the festival’s essence of togetherness and inclusivity.

The ongoing participation of the Gorakshpeethadhishwar in Holika Dahan and Holikotsav underscores the Nath tradition’s commitment to social cohesion, proving that Holi in Gorakhpur is not just a festival, but a movement for unity and collective progress.

In Gorakhnath Temple, the festival of Holika Dahan is performed with traditional rituals. The Gorakshpeethadhishwar, currently CM Yogi Adityanath, marks the beginning of Holikotsav by applying sacred ash from the Holika Dahan fire on his forehead, symbolizing the eternal Sanatan tradition.

This ritual carries a deep message—it signifies the power of devotion and faith, inspired by the story of devotee Prahlad and Lord Narasimha from Hindu mythology.

Applying the ash of Holika Dahan is a way of connecting devotion with social unity. As CM Yogi Adityanath often says, “When devotion reaches its highest state, there is no place for discrimination, untouchability, or social division.”

This belief is reflected in his continuous participation in both Holika Dahan and the grand Lord Narasimha procession, reinforcing the message of faith and social harmony.

Notably, for decades, the Gorakshpeeth’s participation in Holika Dahan and Holikotsav has made Gorakhpur’s Holi a major attraction in Eastern Uttar Pradesh.

The Lord Narasimha Rangotsav procession in Gorakhpur began in 1944, initiated by RSS Pracharak Nanaji Deshmukh during his stay in the city. Even before that, the tradition of celebrating Holi with the ash from Holika Dahan was followed in Gorakhnath Temple.

Nanaji started this procession to remove negativity and vulgarity from Holi celebrations. On his request, the Gorakshpeeth became deeply involved, and under the guidance of Mahant Digvijayanath, Mahant Avaidyanath started representing the Peeth in the event. Eventually, it became an inseparable part of the Gorakshpeeth’s Holi tradition.

Since 1996, under Yogi Adityanath’s leadership, this event has transformed into a festival of social unity across Eastern Uttar Pradesh. Today, it is as popular as the Holi of Mathura and Vrindavan, and people eagerly await CM Yogi’s participation in the grand Narasimha procession.

The procession, covering over five kilometers, is meticulously planned by RSS volunteers, ensuring a smooth and grand celebration. Riding on Lord Narasimha’s chariot, CM Yogi joins the festivities, playing Holi with all, breaking barriers of caste and class, and spreading the message of goodwill and unity.