Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, launched the Hindi edition of former President Ram Nath Kovind's autobiography in Lucknow, describing the book as a 'source of inspiration for the new generation' and praising Kovind for never using adversity as an excuse on his journey to the country's highest constitutional office.

The Book and Its Launch

The autobiography, titled 'Bharatiya Ganatantra Ki Vijaygatha: Mera Jeevan, Mera Sangharsh', was unveiled at a public gathering in Lucknow. Chief Minister Adityanath called it 'the life story of an Indian who never used adversity as a shield but instead paved the way to the country's highest constitutional office through struggle, hard work, and determined effort.'

Addressing the audience, he urged young people to step away from the virtual world of social media and rediscover the value of books. 'If even one or two of those hours were dedicated to reading good books, it could give a new direction to their lives. Advancing in real life is far more beneficial than chasing likes by creating reels on social media. Good books serve as life's most important guides. Young people should read the biographies and autobiographies of great figures, as these provide the inspiration to move forward amidst struggles,' he said.

Kovind's Journey: From Paraukh Village to Raisina Hill

Chief Minister Adityanath recounted key milestones from Kovind's life, noting that the former President was born in Paraukh village in Kanpur and lost his mother during childhood. 'He began his education at the village school and, after pursuing higher education and becoming a lawyer, became a voice for the poor and the marginalised. He discharged responsibilities within the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) organisation, the Rajya Sabha, and as the Governor of Bihar and the President of India,' Adityanath stated.

He further highlighted Kovind's continued bond with his roots. 'He visits the village whenever the opportunity arises and has kept his relationships alive with old friends and local tea and chaat vendors. He made efforts to develop educational facilities in the village; the local school building was upgraded and handed over to the state government, subsequently being developed into a residential school,' the Chief Minister said.

UP Government's Push for Libraries and Reading Culture

The Chief Minister used the occasion to highlight the Uttar Pradesh government's literacy and library initiative. He said 57,600 Gram Sachivalayas (village secretariats) have been constructed across the state, each with a designated library room for village children. Digital libraries are also being developed, with facilities being expanded from basic and secondary schools to colleges and universities.

Adityanath assured that the government would work to ensure Kovind's autobiography reaches these libraries on a large scale. Citing the success of recent book fairs — including events at Lucknow, Gorakhpur, and Lucknow University — he argued that public appetite for reading remains strong. 'What is needed is to provide them with the right platform,' he said.

Broader Message on Resilience and Roots

Drawing a parallel with Lord Ram's enduring love for his birthplace Ayodhya, Chief Minister Adityanath remarked that one's mother and birthplace are 'even greater than heaven.' He said true greatness lies in confronting adverse circumstances rather than fleeing from them — a quality he attributed squarely to Kovind's life and legacy.

With the autobiography now available in Hindi, the event signals a broader effort to make Kovind's story accessible to a wider regional audience, particularly the youth of Uttar Pradesh.