Yogi Adityanath: The Firebrand Monk of Indian Politics
Yogi Adityanath was born Ajay Singh Bisht on June 5, 1972, in Panchur, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand.
He completed his Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University in Uttarakhand.
1993, he renounced his family and joined the Gorakhnath Math, a Hindu temple in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. He was initiated into the Nath tradition by Mahant Avaidyanath and given the name Yogi Adityanath.
He became the head priest (Mahant) of the Gorakhnath Math in 2014 after the death of Mahant Avaidyanath.
Adityanath entered politics in 1998 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha from the Gorakhpur constituency at the age of 26, becoming the youngest member of the 12th Lok Sabha.
He was re-elected to the Lok Sabha from Gorakhpur in 1999, 2004, 2009, and 2014, serving a total of five consecutive terms.
In 2002, Adityanath founded the Hindu Yuva Vahini, a youth organization known for its strong stance on Hindutva and its involvement in various social and political activities in Uttar Pradesh.
On March 19, 2017, after the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly elections, Yogi Adityanath was appointed as the 21st Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh.
As Chief Minister, Adityanath has focused on law and order, anti-corruption measures, infrastructure development, and welfare schemes. His tenure has seen a significant crackdown on crime and illegal activities in the state.
Adityanath has promoted various religious and cultural initiatives, including the grand celebration of Hindu festivals like Diwali in Ayodhya and Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj. He has also advocated for the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya.
His administration has prioritized infrastructure projects, including the construction of expressways, airports, and the development of industrial corridors to boost the state's economy.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Adityanath's government implemented strict lockdown measures, ramped up healthcare infrastructure, and launched welfare schemes to support those affected by the pandemic.
Adityanath is known for his strong oratory skills and has a significant influence in Uttar Pradesh politics. He is considered a prominent leader in the BJP with a substantial following among the party's Hindutva base.
Yogi Adityanath led the BJP to a historic victory in the 2022 Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly elections, securing a second consecutive term as Chief Minister. This victory solidified his position as a key political figure in India.