Gorakhpur: Chief minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday said that a life devoid of devotion is marked by darkness, disorder and ignorance, and that spiritual knowledge rooted in devotion is the path to inner peace and understanding.Addressing devotees at the inauguration of a seven-day ‘Shri Ram Katha’ organised at Gorakhnath Temple ahead of Guru Purnima, Yogi said that sacred discourses such as ‘Ram Katha’ and ‘Shrimad Bhagwat Katha’ help individuals attain both knowledge and devotion.After offering prayers at the Vyas Peeth in the Digvijaynath Smriti Bhavan auditorium, the chief minister said Lord Ram occupies a unique place in the hearts of Indians. “The name of Maryada Purushottam Shri Ram is associated with faith and devotion in every Indian’s mind and conscience. Every Sanatani feels connected to Lord Ram,” he said.Highlighting the cultural significance of Lord Ram, Yogi said greetings such as “Jai Shri Ram” and “Ram Ram Ji”, commonly heard across several states, reflect Sanatan values and have helped preserve social and moral discipline through generations.The CM also described Uttar Pradesh as the spiritual heartland of the country. Referring to Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura-Vrindavan and Prayagraj, he said these sacred centres offer lessons on righteousness, devotion, spirituality and social harmony. “Despite attempts at misinformation, Uttar Pradesh’s pilgrimage centres remain the best places to understand Sanatan values,” he said.Earlier, Yogi led a grand procession carrying the ‘Ramcharitmanas’ manuscript from the main temple to the venue amid Vedic chants by 151 students, the sound of conch shells and traditional bands. The discourse is being delivered daily by Prayagraj-based scholar Acharya Shantanu Maharaj from 3 pm to 6 pm.
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