Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Thursday that the villains of the Ramayana and Mahabharata existed even today in new forms and with new names and every Sanatan Dharma follower must remain vigilant against them. Addressing a gathering to mark the Dussehra celebrations in Gorakhpur, Adityanath claimed that the society, even today, has elements like Shurpanakha, Tadaka, Khar-Dushan, Maricha, and Subahu (demons in Ramayana). Those threatening the safety of daughters and traders are likely disciples of Duryodhana and Dushasana in their past lives, he claimed. The Chief Minister said that Sanatan Dharma is not just a method of worship, but also a guarantee for the welfare of every living being and the protection of the entire creation. To live by the laws of nature, we must keep our faith firm in Sanatan Dharma, he added. Targeting the Opposition parties, he said, “When in power, they questioned the very existence of Ram and Krishna and even conspired against the Sanatan Dharma.” Before his address at the Dussehra event, the CM led the traditional 'Vijaya Shobha Yatra' in Gorakhpur, which is taken out every Vijayadashmi, as head of the Goraksha Peeth, starting from the Gorakhnath temple in the evening. In a press statement, the temple stated that Adityanath, who was clad in the traditional robes of the Gorakhnath temple mahant riding a specially decorated chariot, was welcomed with flowers and garlands by members of different communities on the way. The state Culture Department organised performances by folk groups along the procession route, showcasing the traditions of the region, it was stated. Chaudhary Kaifulwara, a former president of the Urdu Academy, honoured Adityanath on behalf of the Pasmanda and weaver communities. Kaifulwara was quoted saying that his family has been welcoming the yatra for generations. After the procession reached the Mansarovar Ramlila ground, the CM performed the coronation of Lord Ram before addressing the gathering, it was stated.
