Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, addressing a gathering in Ayodhya on Wednesday, declared that the sacred city has undergone a profound metamorphosis over the past decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The occasion marked the second anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) ceremony at the Ram Mandir.
A Shift from Conflict to Peace
Adityanath contrasted the present state of Ayodhya with its troubled past. He stated that the temple town was once turned into a "hotbed of unrest and conflict" due to the actions of individuals driven by personal interests, religious fanaticism, and what he termed "the despicable politics of appeasement." The Chief Minister recalled that after Independence, Ayodhya witnessed several turbulent phases of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement.
He asserted that this situation changed decisively over the past 11 years. "Yet, it is this same Ayodhya that, under the successful leadership of the country's esteemed Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the past 11 years, has witnessed three significant events that can never be forgotten," Adityanath told the audience.
Three Landmark Events in Ayodhya's Renaissance
The Chief Minister highlighted three pivotal milestones in Ayodhya's recent history:
- August 5, 2020: PM Modi became the first Prime Minister to visit Ayodhya and perform the 'bhoomi pujan' for the Ram temple, an act described as ending centuries of humiliation.
- January 22, 2024: The historic Pran Pratishtha ceremony of Ram Lalla, led by PM Modi, which Adityanath called a moment of "pride and emotional fulfilment for the entire nation."
- November 25, 2025: The hoisting of the saffron flag atop the temple's main spire, which he said sent a strong message about the enduring guidance of Sanatan Dharma.
Modern Infrastructure and Unprecedented Devotion
Adityanath detailed the city's physical and spiritual transformation. He noted that over 45 crore devotees have visited Ayodhya in the last five years, a testament to its renewed prominence. He contrasted this with earlier times when basic amenities like electricity, water, sanitation, roads, and security were lacking, and religious expressions could lead to arrests.
Today, he said, Ayodhya boasts modern infrastructure as India's first solar city, equipped with an international airport, improved connectivity, and enhanced civic facilities. On security, he recalled past terror threats, including a foiled attack in 2005, and credited strong policing and divine grace for the city's current safety.
The event was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who hoisted a flag at the Annapurna temple within the Ram Mandir complex and joined prayers. Adityanath lauded Singh for his active role in the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement, noting he appeared visibly emotional during the ceremony.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister called for collective responsibility to preserve Ayodhya's divinity and grandeur for future generations. He linked this preservation to the broader vision of a developed India as the nation approaches 100 years of Independence, urging progress while protecting cultural heritage. He extended New Year greetings, wishing peace and prosperity for all.
