Jaipur, March 16 (NationPress) A significant 'Mahayagya' (grand sacrificial ritual) took place on Monday at the esteemed Sire Mandir, situated on the Kanakanchal Hill in Rajasthan's Jalore, commemorating the 375th anniversary of the Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath was present at the ceremony, engaging in the sacred rituals.

Amid the recitation of Vedic mantras, the Chief Minister made offerings into the holy fire and engaged in prayers to Lord Shiva.

Following the rituals, Chief Minister Adityanath addressed a religious gathering ('Dharmasabha') held within the temple grounds.

In his address, the Chief Minister portrayed Jauhar as a vivid representation of Rajasthan's cultural heritage, stating that it symbolizes the self-respect and sacrifices made by the region's brave women ('Veeranganas').

In a post on his official X account, he remarked: "Queen Padmini's commitment to Jauhar stands as a testament to women's dignity. Today, I had the honor of participating in the Jauhar Shraddhanjali ceremony at Veer Bhumi Chittorgarh, alongside Maharana Vishvaraj Singh ji Mewar, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat ji, and Cabinet Minister Rajyavardhan Rathore ji. Across the nation, we pay homage to the remarkable tradition of heroic figures like Maharana Pratap, Maharana Sangha, Queen Padmini, Maharana Kumbha, and Bappa Rawal. Congratulations to everyone involved in this grand event, and a salute to the great heroic women and brave mothers who uphold the Jauhar Vrat."

Reflecting on the historical significance of Rani Padmini, Chief Minister Adityanath noted that during the reign of Alauddin Khilji, Queen Padmini and other courageous women of Chittorgarh Fort committed Jauhar to defend their honor.

Discussing Jauhar, the Chief Minister emphasized that this tradition embodies the bravery and self-respect of Rajasthan's women.

He highlighted that the history of such sacrifices has created a lasting legacy in the state.

Similar acts of valor were also evident in Jalore during the period of Alauddin Khilji and beyond.

According to Chief Minister Adityanath, this legacy has been sculpted by the sacrifices of valiant warriors and women, alongside the relentless efforts of farmers and artisans.

Praising the architectural beauty of the Sire Temple, he noted that its craftsmanship is extraordinary, drawing visitors from around the globe.

He further mentioned that Maharaja Man Singh preserved the temple's history through inscriptions.

Reportedly, Maharaja Man Singh invested Rs 3.51 lakh in the temple—a sum that would equate to several crores today.

On his way to the temple, Chief Minister Adityanath paused to feed monkeys along the route.

In his speech, he recounted how the monkeys exhibited discipline while eating.

"One monkey declined a second piece of bread until the first was finished. If humans could avoid greed and share with those in need, we could significantly reduce social unrest and disorder," he remarked.

"Avoiding greed is a form of spiritual discipline (sadhana)," added Chief Minister Adityanath.

He also encouraged individuals to engage in yoga and physical exercise to achieve a balanced lifestyle.

He warned that excessive smartphone usage can waste time, impair vision, and diminish cognitive abilities.

Moreover, he stated that mobile games and overuse of phones contribute to rising depression among youth.

He urged people to steer clear of intoxicants and limit their smartphone use, recommending that phones be set aside during meals and prayers to foster family bonding.

During the ceremony, Chief Minister Adityanath received a warm welcome from the temple committee and local residents.

He was honored on stage with a five kg floral garland.

Several saints and religious leaders were present, including Tijara MLA Baba Balaknath and Rajasthan Assembly Chief Whip Jogeshwar Garg, along with other spiritual figures.

On the second day of his visit to Rajasthan, Chief Minister Adityanath took part in various programs conducted within the Sire Mandir complex.

He arrived at the stage around 9:15 a.m. on Monday and spoke to the audience for nearly 40 minutes, also participating in the Mahayagya and temple rituals.

After the event, the Chief Minister departed for Jodhpur around 12:30 p.m. from the helipad near Adarsh Balika School on Sire Mandir Road.