Prayagraj, Feb 23 (UNI) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday hailed Sant Gadge as a pioneer of social justice who spearheaded public awareness against caste discrimination, superstition, and uncleanliness.
A grand function was held at the Ganga Pandal in Sector 1 of Maha Kumbh Nagar on Sunday to mark the 149th birth anniversary of Rashtrasant Param Pujya Gadge Maharaj.
Paying his tribute to Sant Gadge, the CM said that his life has been a beacon of inspiration for societal reform and awareness. “Wherever he travelled, he spread the message of education and cleanliness through kirtans, always carrying a broom as a symbol of his mission,” he said.
Yogi recalled Sant Gadge’s belief that ‘God resides where there is cleanliness’ and said how Prime Minister Narendra Modi furthered this very vision through the launch of the Swachhata Abhiyan on October 2, 2014, which has now become a global movement.
He said that the message of cleanliness propagated by Sant Gadge a century ago continues to inspire millions today. “Under PM Modi’s leadership, the Swachh Bharat Mission has facilitated the construction of toilets in crores of households, safeguarding women’s dignity and preventing diseases,” he said.
Lauding the people of Prayagraj, Yogi commended their exemplary role in maintaining cleanliness and ensuring the seamless organisation of the Maha Kumbh. He also praised the city’s improved traffic management and the spirit of hospitality shown by its residents, who have embraced the Maha Kumbh as their own.
He announced that the 150th birth anniversary of Sant Gadge Ji Maharaj will be celebrated on an even grander scale next year. He reiterated the double-engine government’s commitment to social welfare and vowed to further amplify the message of cleanliness.
The CM praised Legislative Council Member Surendra Chaudhary for organising the grand event. He emphasised that the celebration not only honoured Sant Gadge’s legacy but also reinforced public awareness of vital social reforms.
