The week-long tribute ceremony at Gorakshpeeth, marking the 56th death anniversary of Yugpurush Brahmleen Mahant Digvijaynath Ji Maharaj and the 11th death anniversary of Rashtrasant Brahmleen Mahant Avedyanath Ji Maharaj, will conclude on Thursday (September 11) at Gorakhnath temple. On this occasion, saints from across the country along with Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath will pay homage to Mahant Avedyanath Ji, revered as the guiding guru of the present Gorakshpeethadhishwar.
Remembering Mahant Avedyanath Ji
Mahant Avedyanath, remembered as a central figure in the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement, is also hailed for making social harmony the guiding principle of his life. Widely respected among saints nationwide, he is remembered as a leader who combined religion with public welfare and political responsibility.
Born in 1919 in Garhwal (Uttarakhand), Avedyanath Ji was drawn to spirituality from a young age. Under the mentorship of Mahant Digvijaynath at Gorakshpeeth, he was formally initiated in 1942. Following his guru’s passing in 1969, he became the Mahant and Peethadheeshwar of Gorakhnath temple. Until his eternal samadhi in 2014, he worked tirelessly to spread his guru’s ideals of service and harmony.
A Leader of the Ram Mandir Movement
In the 1990s, Mahant Avedyanath provided decisive leadership to the Ram Mandir movement as president of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Mukti Yagna Samiti and the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Nirman Uchcha Adhikari Samiti. He mobilized saints, political leaders, and the common people alike, igniting the flame of the movement across villages. It is seen as a historical coincidence that the temple’s construction, awaited for five centuries, is now being completed under the leadership of his disciple, Yogi Adityanath.
Champion of Social Harmony
Beyond politics, Avedyanath Ji devoted his life to fighting untouchability and caste-based discrimination. He launched community meal campaigns in Dalit settlements and personally shared meals with marginalized communities, including eating at Domraja’s home in Kashi. He ensured the first brick of the Ram Mandir bhoomipujan was laid by Dalit leader Kameshwar Chaupal, sending a strong message of unity.
Drawing inspiration from Lord Ram and Goddess Durga, he consistently explained that true religion lies in creating a society free from divisions. His teachings emphasized that unity among all castes would give Hindu society the strength of Goddess Durga’s eight arms.
Political Journey
Alongside his religious leadership, Mahant Avedyanath played a prominent political role. He represented the Maniram assembly constituency five times and was elected to the Lok Sabha from Gorakhpur four times. He also held senior positions in the All India Hindu Mahasabha, including Vice President and General Secretary.
Tribute Week at Gorakhnath Temple
The tribute week at Gorakhnath temple has been marked by religious ceremonies, discourses, and remembrance of the contributions of Mahant Digvijaynath and Mahant Avedyanath. On the concluding day, special prayers and tributes will be offered in the presence of saints and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who continues to uphold his guru’s legacy of service and harmony.
