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Time of India
20 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
From bullets to flowers: UP CM Yogi Adityanath on Ayodhya's transition; says blessings of revered seers guiding New India
AYODHYA : CM Yogi Adityanath on Thursday said that Ayodhya has transitioned into a global symbol of 'Atithi Devo Bhava'. "It was a city where once Ram devotees faced bullets but today they are being welcomed with flowers," he said at a public event in Ram Katha Park. Highlighting the significance of Pran Pratishtha ceremony held in Ayodhya on Thursday, chief minister Yogi Adityanath said the grand temple of Ram Lalla is a powerful testament to the enduring strength of Sanatan Dharma. "After a wait of 500 years, the Pran Pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla was performed with great devotion by PM Modi on Jan 22, 2024. Today, the consecration of the divine idols in the Ram Darbar and Ram Mandir has also been accomplished," he said. 'Blessings of revered seers guiding New India' Mentioning Ayodhya's spiritual and cultural resurgence over the past 10 years, Yogi said it was under PM Modi's leadership that the vision of Viksit Bharat, rooted in Sanatan Dharma, was becoming a reality, with Ayodhya reclaiming the divine aura of the Treta Yuga. The CM also attended the 87th birthday celebrations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust president Mahant Nritya Gopal Das at Mani Ram Das Cantonment. The occasion also coincided with Yogi's birthday on Thursday. Calling it a privilege to be part of the celebrations, the CM said it was the divine spiritual practices and blessings of revered seers that were guiding the transformative journey of New India. He also highlighted the legacy of the Mani Ram Das Cantonment, saying that it boasted over 300 years of intense spiritual practice. 'From the 18th to the 21st century, this sacred site has been a centre of unwavering devotion. Legend says that Mata Janaki once appeared in a divine vision to a saint of this tradition, blessing and strengthening its spiritual lineage," he said, crediting Mahant Nritya Gopal Das' leadership for the success of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. Mentioning the redevelopment of pilgrimage centres like Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakaal, Kedarpuri, and Somnath, Yogi said these temples served as the spiritual pillars of a new, empowered India, which was emerging from the roots of Sanatan traditions. Describing the changes being implemented in Ayodhya, Yogi highlighted the efforts to develop it as the country's first solar city. "The once stagnant waters at Ram Ki Paidi now flow clean and pure, capable of accommodating over 5 lakh devotees for a holy dip. A new stretch of ghats, from Naya Ghat to Guptar Ghat, has been developed to enhance the pilgrim experience," the CM said. Highlighting the significance of Ganga Dussehra and World Environment Day celebrated on Thursday, the CM said it had deep spiritual and environmental significance. "It is on this auspicious day, through the penance of Maharaj Bhagirath, that the river Ganga descended to Earth. Ma Ganga is a symbol of devotion and liberation, she is the lifeline of our spiritual heritage," he said. Among other projects to develop Ayodhya as a global spiritual and cultural hub, the CM highlighted an international airport in the name of Maharishi Valmiki, a community kitchen named after Mata Shabari, a pilgrim guest house named in honour of Nishadraj, and temples dedicated to Maharishi Vashishtha, Vishwamitra, and Tulsidas. Referring to the installation of a statue of the Vulture King Jatayu in the temple complex, the CM said that vultures were a species critical to ecological balance but were facing extinction due to food scarcity and environmental degradation. "They serve a vital role in nature and are beneficial to humanity. Jatayu, who valiantly fought Ravan during the abduction of Mata Sita, is a symbol of ultimate sacrifice and courage. That is why his magnificent statue now stands at the Ram Janmabhoomi," he said. Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Eid wishes , messages , and quotes !
Indian Express
a day ago
- Politics
- Indian Express
Adityanath launches more projects: ‘Ayodhya's glory is being restored
Claiming that Ayodhya's glory is being restored to that of 'Treta Yuga' and as described during the era of 'Ramayana', Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday inaugurated projects worth Rs 30 crore and laid the foundation stone of projects worth Rs 33 crore at the temple town. During his daylong visit to Ayodhya, the chief minister, who turned 53 on Thursday, attended several events, including the 87th birthday celebration of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust. 'Ayodhya's identity has undergone historic transformation… There was a time when bullets were fired at Ram devotees coming to Ayodhya. They were beaten and harassed with lathis. But today, they are welcomed with showers of flowers and provided with RO-purified drinking water. Ayodhya is redefining the spirit of hospitality for the world… Its identity is undergoing a global transformation,' the chief minister said at an event after he planted a sapling at the Chaudhary Charan Singh Pushp Vatika to mark World Environment Day. At the 87th birthday celebration of Shri Mahant Nritya Gopal Das Ji Maharaj, the chief minister credited his leadership for the success of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. 'It is my privilege to be part of the birthday celebrations of Pujya Mahant Nritya Gopal Das Ji. I wish him a long, healthy, and spiritually fulfilling life,' he said, adding that the divine spiritual practices and blessings of revered saints are guiding the transformative journey of New India. Calling Ayodhya the global symbol of 'Atithi Devo Bhava', Adityanath also said, 'The construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya after 500 years is a symbol of the strength of Sanatan Dharma.' 'After a wait of 500 years, on 22nd January 2024, the pran pratishtha of Shri Ram Lalla was performed with great devotion by Prime Minister Modi. Today, the consecration of divine idols in the Ram Darbar and Ram Mandir has also been accomplished,' he said. Citing the redevelopment of prominent pilgrimage centres, Adityanath said these temples serve as the spiritual pillars of a new, empowered India, emerging strong and glorious from the roots of Sanatan traditions. He also said the vision of Viksit Bharat rooted in Sanatan Dharma is becoming a reality under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. As the day also marked Ganga Dussehra, Adityanath compared PM Modi with Bhagirath. 'It was through King Bhagirath's penance that the holy river descended on Earth. The Ganga sustains not just Uttar Pradesh but the entire nation. Its fertile plains nourish much of India,' he said. Describing Prime Minister Modi as the 'Bhagirath of modern India', he praised the Namami Gange mission, saying the sacred river was once severely polluted due to unscientific and unplanned activities by previous governments. Later in the day, the chief minister participated in Saryu Jayanti Mahotsava, where he asked all the district magistrates to ensure that they revive at least one river in their respective regions, including Ayodhya. 'Since 2014, the river has been rejuvenated. Over 66 crore devotees witnessed the purity of the Ganga during the Kumbh in Prayagraj.' On World Environment Day, Adityanath promoted the 'Ek Ped Maa ke Naam' (One Tree in Mother's Name) campaign launched by the prime minister. 'If everyone plants a tree in their mother's name, we will never face an environmental crisis,' he said. The CM shared that earlier in the day, he planted a Bel tree at his Lucknow residence, followed by Peepal, Pakad, Neem and Navgrah-related trees on the banks of the Saryu in Ayodhya. —With PTI Inputs
Hindustan Times
a day ago
- Politics
- Hindustan Times
Ram devotees faced bullets once, now welcomed with flowers: Yogi Adityanath in Ayodhya
Ram devotees once faced bullets and lathi-charges but today they are welcomed with flower showers, chief minister Yogi Adityanath said in Ayodhya on Thursday. He was addressing a gathering at Ram Katha Park after the pran pratishtha of the Ram Darbar held earlier in the day on the first floor of the Ram temple. 'Pran pratishtha of Ram Lalla on January 22, 2024, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marked the end of a 500-year-long wait and symbolised the restoration of India's ancient glory,' Adityanath said. 'Ayodhya has transitioned into a global symbol of 'Atithi Devo Bhava' in recent years. Once Ram devotees faced bullets and lathi-charges. Today, they are welcomed with flower showers and served RO-purified water,' the chief minister said. Aditynath described Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the 'Bhagirath of modern India', crediting him for the success of the Namami Gange campaign. 'Before 2014, the Ganga was severely polluted due to the unplanned and unscientific activities of previous governments. But through Namami Gange, the river has regained its purity and uninterrupted flow. Over 66 crore (660 million) devotees witnessed this during the Mahakumbh in Prayagraj,' the chief minister said. He also extended greetings on the occasions of Ganga Dussehra, Saryu Mahotsav and World Environment Day. Highlighting the significance of the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign launched by the PM, he said if every citizen plants a tree in their mother's name, an environmental crisis can be averted. Stating that one river will be rejuvenated in every district, he said an extensive plantation campaign will be conducted along riverbanks from July 1 to 7 as part of this mission. Commenting on Ayodhya's transformation, the chief minister said the temple town was once plagued by irregular power supply, water shortages, and cleanliness issues, but it has now emerged as a clean and beautiful spiritual destination. 'Earlier, the number of devotees barely crossed a few lakhs, Ayodhya welcomed over 16 crore (160 million) pilgrims last year alone—a testament to the (Ayodhya) Municipal Corporation's improved management and facilities,' the chief minister said. He congratulated Ayodhya mayor Girish Pati Tripathi, along with all councilors and officials, on completing two years in office. He praised the municipal corporation's performance, particularly in urban development and civic management. He highlighted key development works in Ayodhya, including the establishment of an international airport, beautification of temples and expansion of Ram Ki Paidi. The chief minister called on the citizens of Ayodhya to take a pledge to revive at least one river in the region and help the local administration in this campaign. Adityanath inaugurated development projects worth ₹30 crore and laid the foundation stone for projects valued at ₹33 crore. DMs asked to revive rivers Adityanath directed all district magistrates to revive at least one river in their respective districts. He said no sewage, drains or carcasses should be dumped into rivers. He also directed that a large-scale tree plantation drive be carried out along riverbanks. 'This year, 35 crore (350 million) saplings will be planted along rivers,' the chief minister said. The chief minister also inaugurated the 13th Saryu Jayanti Mahotsav organized at Anjaneya Seva Sansthan, Ayodhya. He highlighted the historical, cultural and environmental importance of Ayodhya. He also spoke about river revival efforts, ongoing development projects, and the emerging identity of Uttar Pradesh. 'Rivers are the foundation of Mother Earth, and protecting them is essential to safeguard the environment, wildlife, and human life,' he said. Referring to the grand Mahakumbh held in Prayagraj earlier this year, the chief minister said the world witnessed this festival on the banks of the Ganga, which stands as a symbol of India's cultural and spiritual strength. Ayodhya is witnessing the dawn of a new era, he said, adding, 'The consecration of Lord Ram has ended a 500-year-long wait and sparked a cultural renaissance in India.' 'Visitors are now amazed by the transformation of the city. Ayodhya today boasts four-lane and six-lane roads, water ATMs, and other modern public amenities,' the chief minister said. 'It is fitting that Ayodhya—the capital of the Suryavanshi dynasty—is now a solar city,' he said. Plantation drive on June 23 The Bharatiya Janata Party will launch a tree plantation drive on June 23, the death anniversary of Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Dr Syama Prasad Mookerjee. CM attends birthday celebrations of Mahant Nritya Gopal Das Chief minister Yogi Adityanath attended the 87th birthday celebrations of Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust chairman Mahant Nritya Gopal Das on Thursday. Nritya Gopal also heads the Mani Ram Das Chhavni, the most prominent body of saints in Ayodhya. Highlighting the legacy of the Mani Ram Das Chhavni, he said: 'From the 18th to the 21st century, this sacred site has been a centre of unwavering devotion.' He credited Mahant Nritya Gopal Das's leadership for the success of the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, adding that Ayodhya is now evolving into one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
News18
a day ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Indian Woman Surprises US Workers With Vada. Their Reaction Is Priceless
Last Updated: The video features workers from a Minnesota-based company called The Sealcoating Guys. Indian cuisine is celebrated worldwide for its rich flavours and diverse snacks. Recently, a video surfaced online, capturing how one such snack brought unexpected joy to a group of American workers. The video features employees from a Minnesota-based company called The Sealcoating Guys, who were busy paving and sealing a driveway outside a home. In the clip, one of the workers is heard saying, 'It smells so good. She said we could have little doughnuts or something. She asked if we wanted some," referring to an Indian homeowner offering them a treat. 'I know, they're probably going to come out with something. They are super nice," he added. After they finished their work, a woman came out of her house holding two disposable plates. Each plate had three pieces of vada along with some coconut chutney. The woman, dressed casually with a dupatta on her shoulders, offered the homemade snacks to the workers as a way to thank them. The crew thanked her, saying, 'Thank you so much," and 'So kind of you." Curious about the snack, they asked her what it was. She explained, 'Vada. It's like a doughnut, but not sweet, spicy only." As the workers enjoyed the vada with coconut chutney, they were heard praising the snack with one of them even exclaiming, 'Fire." Since being posted online, the clip has also gathered more than 12 million views. It made Indians proud, with many people showering praise for the woman in the comments section. One user commented, 'This is the beautiful culture of India. Atithi Devo Bhava (The guest is equivalent to God)." Another said, 'It's just a gesture of goodwill buddy, it's very common in India." 'Our Indian culture is the best in the world. So kind," someone else added. A viewer shared, 'It is like a thank you gesture for the work you are doing for them. Providing food and water is considered 'bare minimum' in Indian culture. So, everyone does that. I was shocked to see it not the case in other parts of the world." 'Look at them feeling so special about it. Culture carried right," read another comment. Vada is a popular Indian snack made from lentils, vegetables, or both. It is usually served with chutneys and sambar. First Published: June 05, 2025, 18:54 IST
NDTV
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- NDTV
Indian Woman Offers American Construction Workers Medu Vadas, Wins Hearts Online
Two construction workers at a house in Minnesota, USA, were touched by an Indian woman's hospitality towards them recently. A video about the same, shared on their company's official Instagram page, has gone viral on Instagram. It shows the woman handing over two plates filled with crispy media vadas and coconut chutney to the men doing asphalt/paving work outside her home. They seemed surprised yet grateful to receive the homemade snacks. They ask her what the delicacy is called, and she tells them. The woman also describes the vadas as a "kind of doughnut." However, she specifies that it's spicy and not sweet, so that the workers know what to expect. Also Read: Australian Restaurant Makes Filter Coffee Soft Serve Ice Cream, Indians Approve In the video, we see that they continue their tasks and later go to the side of the road where their vehicle is parked to dig into the snack. They seem to enjoy the taste. One of them calls it "fire," as he savours the spice of the vada-chutney combo. Watch the video below to know more: View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Sealcoating Guys (@sealcoatinguys) Also Read: American Woman Makes Crisp Medu Vadas From Scratch, Indians Are Impressed The viral video has won many hearts online. Here's how people reacted in the comments section: "That's our Indian Culture." "It's just a gesture of goodwill, buddy, it's very common in India." "Yooo send one of those my way haha." "This is the beautiful culture of India. Atithi Devo Bhava (The guest is equivalent to God)." "Love from India. Next time you guys eat it hot hot." "That's some crunchy vada bro!" "With that crunchy sound, I know you guys had some dope vada." "It is like a thank you gesture for the work you are doing for them. Providing food and water is considered the 'bare minimum' in Indian culture. So everyone does that. I was shocked to see it not the case in other parts of the world." "That's our Indian Hospitality, brother." "Yum!! Vada is the best!! Now I want some." Before this, a video showing a Punjabi couple abroad sharing homemade pakoras with their neighbour took social media by storm. The clip shows them passing the food over their shared backyard fence. In this instance, too, users reacted positively in the comments. Read the complete article about it here.
