Lucknow, Jan 8 (UNI) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday said that the belief system of Sanatan Dharma represents the world's oldest culture, standing above comparison with any religion or sect.

The CM said, "I inherit a legacy that spans thousands of years, with its cultural and spiritual events equally ancient. The tradition of Sanatan is higher than the sky and beyond comparison."

Speaking at the 'Mahakumbh Mahasammelan, he emphasised the profound significance of the Maha Kumbh. He explained that after the Devasura Sangram (the battle between gods and demons), drops of nectar fell at four sacred locations, Prayagraj, Haridwar, Ujjain, and Nashik.

He said, "The Maha Kumbh at these sites has served as a platform for shaping India's knowledge, ideology and social direction throughout history.

Yogi said that the Maha Kumbh is more than just a religious gathering as it symbolises India's spiritual heritage and national unity.

He highlighted that during the Maha Kumbh, sages from across India would gather to reflect on the social and political conditions of their times, making the event not just a reverence for tradition but also essential for preserving cultural wisdom for future generations.

The CM lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said, “The organisation of Maha Kumbh represents a remarkable confluence of India's heritage and development.”

Reflecting on the 2019 Prayagraj Kumbh, he highlighted how modern technology, efficient management and cultural traditions were seamlessly integrated. “We will strive to achieve the same harmony in the upcoming Maha Kumbh,” he said.

He emphasized that the UP government, in collaboration with the central government, has taken numerous measures to ensure the Maha Kumbh is both grand and meticulously organised.

He said, "This event is drawing not just the citizens of India, but also people from around the globe."

Yogi described the Maha Kumbh as a golden opportunity to showcase India's rich cultural heritage on an international stage.

Describing Mahakumbh as a profound symbol of national and cultural unity, he said, "This event transcends caste, creed and gender barriers. Maha Kumbh will serve as a powerful reflection of the progress India has made over the past decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It stands as a living testament to India's prosperity, rich heritage, and spiritual tradition."

He said that certain individuals, 'who thrive on foreign leftovers',' are trying to tarnish the nation’s image. He accused them of exploiting caste divisions for political gains, but affirmed that the people of India have become more aware and will not fall prey to such divisive tactics.

While discussing national and Hindu unity, the CM emphasised that Sanatan Dharma has always held the highest position, asserting that Hindu unity and national unity go hand in hand.

He said, "History bears witness that division has always led to weakness, unity has made us invincible. That is why I have always maintained, ’Batenge toh katenge, ek rahenge toh nek rahenge’ (‘Divided we fall, united we thrive).’"

Criticising the opposition, Yogi accused certain groups of attempting to divide society along caste and religious lines, calling them forces conspiring to weaken the nation.

He asserted that the people of the country have grown more aware and are no longer susceptible to such divisive tactics. "Today, it is not the citizens of UP, but the mafia and criminals who are running away from the state," he said.

Taking a strong stance on the issue of land occupation under the name of the Waqf Board, the CM questioned, "It is hard to tell whether it is a Waqf Board or a board of land mafias."

He said it that his government has amended the Waqf Act and is actively investigating all occupied land. "We will reclaim every inch of land that has been taken under the pretext of Waqf, and it will be used to build housing, educational institutions, and hospitals for the poor," he said.

Highlighting the ancient heritage of Sanatan Dharma, Yogi asserted that the tradition of Kumbh far predates the Waqf institution. "The stature of Sanatan Dharma is higher than the sky and its depth deeper than the ocean. It cannot be compared to any sect or religion," he said.

He launched a strong critique against the Samajwadi Party (SP) and its leaders, emphasising their failure to uphold the principles of Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia.

He reminded that Dr. Lohia had once said, "If you want to understand India, study the traditions of Ram, Krishna, and Shiva.

He said, "Those who claim to follow the ideals of Lohia never truly understood his words."

Highlighting the development of Ayodhya, the CM said, "We have transformed Ayodhya into a center of development and heritage. Those who once opposed Ayodhya's progress have no moral authority to visit the city now."

Addressing the dispute over religious sites in Sambhal, he pointed out that the Puranas mention Sambhal as the birthplace of Kalki, the tenth incarnation of Shri Hari Vishnu. He condemned attempts to encroach on religious sites by damaging them and said, "Our government took decisive action based on the court's order and sent a clear message to the rioters."

Speaking on the topics of religious conversion and Ghar Wapsi (homecoming to one's ancestral faith), Yogi said, "If someone genuinely wishes to return to their original faith from the heart, they should be welcomed. This reflects a conscious respect for religion and tradition."

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