Chandauli News: No saint, mahatma or yogi can ever be power-hungry, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday. Speaking at a public function in UP's Chandauli, the Chief Minister said the role of saints and yogis is to inspire the society to follow in his footsteps, as all their achievements and meditation are in national and social interests.
“At the same time, all the achievements and sadhana (meditation) of saints and sanyasis lie in the national interest, social interest and human welfare. Baba Keenaram had presented the same ideals to everyone through divine meditation 425 years ago. The country became a slave because foreign invaders succeeded in dividing the country and society,” news agency IANS quoted Adityanath as saying at the 425th incarnation ceremony organised at the birthplace of Aghoracharya Baba Keenaram.
He paid tribute to Baba Keenaram and reflected upon the spiritual leader's life. The Chief Minister pointed out that despite his aristocratic lineage, Baba Keenaram initiated numerous programs aimed at improving the lives of the tribal communities and locals. He also stood up against the Mughal rulers, particularly Shah Jahan, asserting his strength and independence from political power, Aadityanath noted.
“These actions demonstrate that a true saint or yogi can never be a slave to authority. Baba Keenaram's legacy includes numerous miracles and the establishment of Kriin Kund in Kashi, where he integrated various spiritual practices from across India. The purity and power of his spirit remain evident to this day,” he added.
He also mentioned that when a medical college was planned in Chandauli, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs and MLAs suggested naming it after Baba Keenaram, to which he agreed, as a college was a fitting tribute to Baba's legacy, "one that would contribute to the health and well-being of the people."
The Chief Minister further noted that the social reform initiatives started by Baba Keenaram continued to this day through the Aghor Peeth, including efforts such as promoting widow remarriage, women's education, caring for leprosy patients, and supporting the poor and oppressed.
Adityanath also urged people to keep all their actions in service of the nation, with the spirit of "nation first" guiding their work.