The Enduring Bond: The Profound Guru-Shishya Relationship Between Yogi Adityanath and Mahant Avedyanath in Guru Purnima

Guru Mahant Avedyanath: The Guiding Light of Hindutva and the Spiritual Mentor to Yogi Adityanath

In a beautiful display of Guru-Shishya Parampara, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and his Guru Brahmalin Gorakshpeethadhishwar Mahant Avedyanath set an unparalleled example of discipleship and sonship. The unique bond between the two showcases the essence of tradition and inheritance of knowledge and power.

The journey of Yogi Adityanath, who would later become the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, started when he met Mahant Avedyanath during the Ramjanmabhoomi movement in 1990. Impressed by the young Ajay Singh Bisht, Mahant Avedyanath recognized his potential and foresaw his future at Gorakshpeeth. In 1993, after leaving his family and home, Ajay moved to Gorakhpur, where he was anointed as the disciple of Mahant Avedyanath in February 1994.

Under the tutelage of his Guru, Yogi Adityanath became well-versed in the traditions and methods of the Nath Panth and also honed his administrative and political skills. As the years passed, Mahant Avedyanath gradually handed over his political succession to Yogi, who went on to win the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat five times in a row.

One of the pivotal lessons Yogi learned from his Guru was during the 1998 Lok Sabha elections. Facing a tough fight from a Samajwadi Party candidate, Yogi discovered that an employee of a college associated with Gorakshpeeth was acting as the opponent's agent. Showing his respect for democracy and fairness, Yogi took the matter to Mahant Avedyanath, who wisely advised him that in a democracy, people have the freedom to support whomever they choose.

Yogi Adityanath also showed unwavering dedication to his Guru, ensuring that Mahant Avedyanath did not feel his growing age or weakening memory. During the preparation of a catalog for the Gorakhnath temple, Yogi tactfully diverted his Guru's attention when he couldn't recognize some faces in old photographs. This exemplified his love and respect for his Guru's sentiments.

In the later years, when Mahant Avedyanath fell ill, Yogi Adityanath took care of his every need, showing immense compassion and reverence. When the Guru wished to breathe his last at Gorakshpeeth, Yogi fulfilled his wish by bringing him back in an air ambulance. After Mahant Avedyanath's passing in 2014, Yogi Adityanath continues to visit Gorakshpeeth and bow his head in tribute to his beloved Guru.

The saga of Guru Mahant Avedyanath and Yogi Adityanath exemplifies the true essence of Guru Purnima, celebrating the bond between a Guru and his disciple, the passing down of knowledge and values, and the eternal spirit of devotion and service. Their story remains an inspiration for generations to come, reflecting the essence of Hindutva and the sacred tradition of Guru-Shishya Parampara.