The Monk Who Became CM

Gorakhpur, a city known for its spirituality, culture, and political significance, has given India one of its most controversial yet influential leaders—Yogi Adityanath. From being the head priest of Gorakhnath Temple to becoming the longest-serving BJP Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, his journey is nothing short of extraordinary.

But what connects Yogi Adityanath so deeply to Gorakhpur? How did this city shape his ideology, and how has he transformed it in return? Let’s unravel the story.

1. Yogi Adityanath: The Early Days in Gorakhpur

From Ajay Singh Bisht to Yogi Adityanath

Born as Ajay Singh Bisht in Pauri Garhwal (Uttarakhand), he left home at 21 and arrived in Gorakhpur, where he became a disciple of Mahant Avaidyanath, the then-head of Gorakhnath Temple.

Rise in Gorakhnath Math

• 1994: Took over as Mahant (head priest) after Avaidyanath’s death.

• 1998: Entered politics, winning the Gorakhpur Lok Sabha seat for the first time.

• 5-time MP: Held the seat uncontested for 19 years before becoming CM.

Why Gorakhpur?

• The Gorakhnath Math has been a Hindutva stronghold for decades.

• Yogi’s fiery speeches and Hindu nationalist image resonated with the city’s ethos.

2. Gorakhpur’s Transformation Under Yogi Adityanath

Since becoming CM in 2017, Yogi has prioritized Gorakhpur’s development. Key changes include:

A. Infrastructure & Connectivity

✔ Gorakhpur Metro Proposal – Planned to ease traffic congestion.
✔ Expanded Roads & Highways – Better connectivity to Lucknow, Varanasi.
✔ Gorakhpur Railway Station Upgrade – World’s longest platform now more passenger-friendly.

B. Healthcare Revolution

• AIIMS Gorakhpur – A ₹1,000+ crore project to boost medical facilities.

• New Medical Colleges – Addressing the healthcare crisis post-2017 encephalitis deaths.

C. Education & Employment

• IIT Gorakhpur Expansion – More courses, better placements.

• Defense Corridor – Creating jobs in aerospace & manufacturing.

D. Religious & Cultural Push

• Gorakhnath Temple Renovation – More tourist-friendly facilities.

• Promotion of Gorakhpur’s Heritage – Including Gita Press, Ramleela events.

3. Controversies & Challenges

Yogi’s journey hasn’t been without turbulence. Gorakhpur witnessed:

A. 2017 Encephalitis Tragedy

• Over 1,500 child deaths due to oxygen shortage at BRD Hospital.

• Massive backlash against the government’s handling.

B. Law & Order Criticisms

• Gorakhpur’s “Thok Do” (Encounter) Policy – Critics call it extrajudicial.

• Communal Tensions – Some allege rising polarization.

C. Political Opposition

• SP & BSP leaders often accuse him of favoring Hindutva over governance.

4. Yogi’s Emotional Connection with Gorakhpur

Despite controversies, Gorakhpur remains Yogi’s “Karma Bhoomi.”

A. He Still Calls Gorakhpur Home

• Even as CM, he frequently visits Gorakhnath Temple.

• His residence remains inside the Math premises.

B. The City’s Pride

Locals say:
“Yogi ne Gorakhpur ka naam roshan kiya” (Yogi has glorified Gorakhpur).

C. A Leader Who Listens?

• Janata Darshan – Public grievance meetings held regularly.

• Direct WhatsApp Helpline – Citizens can message complaints. Message: 9454404444

5. What’s Next for Gorakhpur & Yogi?

A. Upcoming Projects

• Purvanchal Expressway Link – Faster travel to Lucknow.

• Smart City Developments – Modernizing Gorakhpur’s core areas.

B. Will Yogi Return to Gorakhpur After Politics?

Many believe he’ll return as Gorakhnath Mahant, continuing his spiritual legacy.