GORAKHPUR, March 6 -- Chief minister Yogi Adityanath has said festivals like Holi reinforce social cohesion and collective joy. He was addressing a large gathering after flagging off Bhagwan Narasimha's traditional Rang Bhari Shobha Yatra from Ghantaghar on the occasion of Holi in Gorakhpur on Wednesday. "Our festivals promote togetherness and mutual respect. They reflect the inclusive spirit of our traditions and inspire us to work for a harmonious society," Adityanath said. He underlined the core values of Sanatan-discipline, dignity, devotion and social harmony. He said these values have kept the tradition alive and vibrant for centuries. He also credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ushering in a new phase of cultural and heritage revival under the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat'. Major spiritual centres symbolise maryada (discipline), eternal consciousness, devotion and social cohesion, he said. Adityanath said India is witnessing a renewed commitment to preserving its heritage. "Be it Kashi Vishwanath Dham, the grand Ram Temple in Ayodhya, Mahakal Lok, or the redevelopment of Kedarnath Temple, Badrinath Temple, Somnath Temple, Jagannath Temple and Ramanathaswamy Temple-India today takes pride in its restored heritage. Under the prime minister's leadership, preservation of legacy and the vision of 'Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat' are progressing together," he added. The chief minister asserted that the strength of Sanatan lies in maryada, the vibrancy of eternal consciousness, devotion and harmony. Describing UP as the "soul of India," Adityanath said Ayodhya symbolises maryada, Kashi represents eternal spiritual consciousness, Mathura-Vrindavan reflects devotion, and Prayagraj's Triveni Sangam exemplifies social harmony, where people from all sections of society take a holy dip without discrimination. The procession was organised by the Shri Holika Utsav Committee. The chief minister extended Holi greetings to the people of the state. After his address, the CM performed rituals and offered aarti to Bhagwan Narasimha. He later joined devotees in playing Holi, showering flower petals and colours amid chants of religious slogans. The procession passed through various routes under heavy security. Earlier, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) prant pracharak Rameshji welcomed the chief minister and said the Rang Bhari Shobha Yatra, which began in Gorakhpur over eight decades ago, has conveyed a message of social unity across the country. He described Gorakshpeeth as a symbol of harmony, nationalism and cultural pride. The chief minister also addressed a Holi Milan function at the Gorakhnath Temple on Wednesday evening where he said those who question Sanatan Dharma often fail to understand the true spirit of festivals like Holi. He further said forces guided by positive thinking always emerge victorious. He extended greetings to people and participated in traditional celebrations. He urged citizens to perform their duties with a "nation first" spirit. "Devotion must be linked with patriotism," he said. The programme was attended by seers, local residents, party workers and public representatives. BJP MP from Gorakhpur Ravi Kishan also performed a Holi song at the event....