Yogi Adityanath, the saffron-clad Sanyasi turned Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, has carved a unique niche in Indian politics. Known for his fiery speeches and decisive governance, he has steered the state through significant reforms and development initiatives.
Biography
Full Name: Ajay Singh Bisht (known as Yogi Adityanath)
Date of Birth: June 5, 1972
Place of Birth: Panchur, Pauri Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India
Nationality: Indian
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Mathematics, Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University
Early Life and Education
Born as Ajay Singh Bisht in a Rajput family, Yogi Adityanath was the second among seven siblings. His was in local schools, followed by a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics from Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University.His upbringing was deeply influenced by Hindu traditions, which later shaped his spiritual and political journey.
Spiritual Journey
Adityanath's spiritual journey began in the early 1990s when he met Mahant Avaidyanath, the head priest of the Gorakhnath Math, a Hindu temple in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Renounceing his family ties and worldly possessions, he was initiated into the Nath sect of Hinduism and took on the name Yogi Adityanath. After Mahant Avaidyanath's death in 2014, Yogi Adityanath became the head priest (Mahant) of the Gorakhnath Math, solidifying his position as a spiritual leader.
Entry into Politics
Yogi Adityanath's political career began in 1998 when he was elected to the Lok Sabha (the lower house of India's Parliament) from the Gorakhpur constituency at the age of 26. He succeeded his mentor Mahant Avaidyanath in this role and went on to be Re-elected from the same constituency for five consecutive terms. His tenure as an MP was marked by his outspoken views on Hindu nationalism and development issues.
Rise to Prominence
Adityanath's prominence in politics grew due to his strong stance on Hindutva and his ability to mobilise masses. As the founder of the Hindu Yuva Vahini, a youth organisation, he played a crucial role in advocating for Hindu rights and addressing social issues. His influence extended beyond Uttar Pradesh, making him a significant figure in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh
In March 2017, Yogi Adityanath was appointed as the 21st Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, following the BJP's landslide victory in the state assembly elections. His selection was seen as a bold move, reflecting the party's commitment to its core ideology and a focus on development and law and order.
Governance and Reforms
As Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath has undertaken numerous initiatives aimed at transforming Uttar Pradesh. His administration has focused on infrastructure development, improving law and order, and boosting the economy. Notable projects include the construction of expressways, airports, and the development of industrial corridors.
He has also emphasized social welfare schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (housing for all), Ujjwala Yojana (free LPG connections), and initiatives for farmer welfare. His government's crackdown on crime, often described as "encounter raj," has been both lauded for improving safety and criticized for human rights concerns.
Challenges and Controversies
Yogi Adityanath's tenure has not been without controversies. His strong rhetoric and policies on religious conversions, cow protection, and love jihad have polarized opinions. Critics argue that his administration's stance has sometimes exacerbated communal tensions. Additionally, the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges, drawing both criticism and praise for various measures taken.
Personal Life
Yogi Adityanath remains a celibate monk, dedicating his life to spiritual and public service. Known for his austere lifestyle, he is deeply connected to his followers and often engages in spiritual discourses and community service.
Family
Father : Anand Singh Bisht, a forest range.
Mother: Savitri Devu
Siblings: Yogi Adityanath has six siblings
Height: Yogi Adityanath stands approximately 163 cm (5 feet 4 inches) tall.
Career
Yogi Adityanath's career spans over two decades, marked by his transition from a spiritual leader to a prominent politician. His tenure as an MP and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh has been characterized by his focus on development, law and order, and Hindutva ideology. His governance style is both transformative and contentious, reflecting his strong personality and commitment to his beliefs.
Net Worth
As of 2023, Yogi Adityanath's declared net worth is around ₹72 lakhs (approximately $90,000). This includes his salary as Chief Minister, allowances, and other assets. Unlike many politicians, his austere lifestyle means he has relatively modest financial disclosures.
Conclusion
Yogi Adityanath's journey from Ajay Singh Bisht to the Chief Minister of India's most populous state is a testament to his dedication, spiritual conviction, and political acumen. His leadership continues to shape Uttar Pradesh's trajectory, blending development with a strong cultural and ideological stance. As he navigates the complexities of governance, his legacy is being defined by his bold decisions and transformative policies.
