Lucknow, Oct 27 (NationPress) Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath remarked that the revered festival of Chhath Puja embodies not just a pathway to spiritual growth but also stands as a beacon of social unity, a testament to India's ancient heritage, and a celebration of harmony with nature.

During a grand event held at the Chhath Ghat along the Gomti River at Laxman Mela Ground, CM Yogi relished traditional Chhath songs and unveiled the Bhojpuriya Sandesh souvenir.

Speaking to the gathered devotees in Bhojpuri, the Chief Minister infused the atmosphere with excitement. He assured that no drainage or sewer from Lucknow would contaminate the Gomti River; it would remain pure between Pilibhit and Ghazipur.

He emphasized that the Chhath festival connects the Bhojpuri community worldwide with the essence of self-purification and public welfare.

In his Bhojpuri greetings, he expressed, "May Chhath Maiya's blessings be upon everyone, bringing happiness, prosperity, and wellness to all families. I seek blessings from Chhathi Mai for those observing the fast, that their dreams may be fulfilled."

CM Yogi highlighted that this festival represents India’s rich heritage and teaches us to live in harmony with nature. He praised the four days of intense devotion, especially the sacrifices made by women, linking the festival to family prosperity and communal well-being.

He noted that this ancient custom has flourished across India, with millions of devotees participating from eastern Uttar Pradesh to the western regions.

Quoting areas like Ghaziabad and Noida, he noted that between 50,000 to 100,000 devotees are celebrating Chhath.

CM Yogi stated that no temple, pond, or lake is devoid of devotees during this festival, which not only showcases cultural unity but also conveys a message of national solidarity. He mentioned that this festival fortifies social ties.

He further asserted that a nation cannot progress without its citizens being engaged in their national responsibilities. Linking the Swachh Bharat Mission to Chhath, he acknowledged that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, this initiative, started in 2014, has laid the groundwork for environmental conservation.

He called upon citizens to cease the careless use of single-use plastics and polythene and to minimize waste.

He urged everyone to eliminate pollution sources and refrain from discarding waste in rivers or drains, stating that adherence to this would resolve over half of the pollution issues.

CM Yogi underscored that cleanliness is a duty shared by every citizen, not just the administration. He stressed that collective efforts are essential to realize the vision of a developed and self-reliant India.

He acknowledged past complaints regarding low water levels and foul odors in the Gomti River, but due to the administration's, irrigation department's, municipal corporation's, and volunteer organizations' efforts, the situation has notably improved this year.

He stated that discussions had occurred a month prior, and the Akhil Bhartiya Bhojpuri Samaj had conducted a cleanliness initiative. Consequently, the Gomti's water is now clean and plentiful.

He pointed out that if the water offered in rituals (arghya) is impure, how can it be accepted by God? Just as places of worship need to be clean, so must the river.

CM Yogi confirmed, "In the next year or so, no drainage or sewer from Lucknow will flow into the Gomti. The river will remain clean and uninterrupted between Pilibhit and Ghazipur."

He encouraged devotees to engage in a cleanliness drive the morning after the festival, emphasizing it as a national duty that every citizen of Lucknow and the state should uphold.

During the program, the CM praised the office-bearers of the Akhil Bhartiya Bhojpuri Samaj for overcoming challenges and elevating the organization.

He highlighted the custom of celebrating Chhath — from homes to riverbanks — and extended his well-wishes to all, praying to Chhathi Maiya to fulfill everyone’s aspirations and bring joy and prosperity to families and society.

In attendance were Deputy Chief Minister Brajesh Pathak, Mayor Sushma Kharwal, President of the Akhil Bhartiya Bhojpuri Samaj Prabhunath Rai, former Secretary to the Prime Minister of Mauritius Suresh Rambaran, along with various local public representatives and officials.