On Thursday, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath reiterated his view that Sanatan Dharma is the singular true religion, asserting that any threat to it endangers humanity as a whole. Speaking at the Bharatatma Ashok Singhal Veda Award-2024 ceremony hosted by the Singhal Foundation in Ayodhya, Adityanath emphasized that the preservation of Sanatan Dharma is crucial for global betterment.

Adityanath praised Ashok Singhal, a prominent figure in the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and a key proponent of the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement, for his dedication to Sanatan Dharma. He highlighted Singhal’s contributions, including his role in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, and described Singhal as an embodiment of the principles he advocated.

He said, “The impact of his contributions to the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi movement was evident on January 22, 2024, when the most significant event of this century took place. On that day, Lord Shri Ramlala was enthroned in the magnificent temple by Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s own hands. When dedication is genuine, the results follow.”

Adityanath also praised Singhal’s efforts in uplifting the untouchables and noted the establishment of Veda Vidyalaya and Ekal Vidyalaya as integral to the Ram Janmabhoomi movement. He emphasized that the Vedas represent the fundamental origin of all global religions, and Singhal’s life was a testament to this significance.

In his address, CM Yogi also referenced the murder of cow protector Sundar Yadav by “cow smugglers” in Azamgarh, highlighting how the subsequent movement led by Singhal resulted in the arrest of Yadav’s killers.

He said India’s prestige is rooted in Sanskrit and cultural heritage, suggesting that the world looks to India for peace, security, and harmony.

The ceremony also honoured several individuals with Lifetime Achievement Awards and other accolades. Veda Murti, Senior Brahmarshi Vishnu Patal Subramaniam, and Acharya Gopal Chandra Mishra received a prize of seven lakhs, a medal, and a certificate for their outstanding contributions to Vedic education. Adarsh Vedadhyapak Vice Chancellor R. Chandramouli Shruti of Tamil Nadu received five lakhs, a medal, and a certificate, while Uttam Veda Vidyarthi Narayan Lal Sharma from Rajasthan was awarded three lakhs, a medal, and a certificate.