CM Yogi Adityanath Renames Akbarpur Bus Stand to ‘Shravan Dham’ in Honour of Ramayana Legacy, Emphasizes Cultural and Religious Identity of Ambedkar Nagar

In a move underscoring Uttar Pradesh’s deep-rooted connection with India’s spiritual and mythological heritage, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday announced the renaming of the Akbarpur bus stand in Ambedkar Nagar to ‘Shravan Dham Bus Stand’, in tribute to Shravan Kumar, the legendary figure from the Ramayana known for his devotion to his parents.

The renaming reflects the government’s effort to revive and highlight cultural icons who represent traditional Indian values of filial piety, sacrifice, and dharma.

Speaking during his visit to Ambedkar Nagar, the Chief Minister said the decision aims to re-establish the region’s mythological importance and promote it as a center of religious and cultural tourism.

He affirmed that the area associated with Shravan Kumar — Shravan Dham — will be developed as a major spiritual destination, drawing visitors not only from Uttar Pradesh but across the country.

In addition to this symbolic gesture, Adityanath also announced the renaming of the Tanda bus stand after Jairam Verma, a respected figure in the local socio-political landscape, recognizing his contributions to the region’s welfare and development.

During the same public event, held amid traditional prayers at Shiv Baba Dham, the Chief Minister reiterated the spiritual essence of the site and informed that several religious infrastructure projects have been completed there, with ongoing efforts aimed at enhancing facilities for pilgrims.

“Shravan Dham and Shiv Baba Dham are sacred spaces not just for the faithful of Uttar Pradesh but for all devotees of Sanatan Dharma,” he said, reinforcing the state’s commitment to preserving its spiritual ecology.

The occasion also witnessed the inauguration of 102 development projects and the foundation laying for 92 more, amounting to a combined investment of ₹1,184 crore — a reflection of the state’s vision to blend cultural preservation with modern development.

The projects span vital sectors including public infrastructure, rural water supply under the Jal Jeevan Mission, law and order, and electricity, ensuring the overall upliftment of Ambedkar Nagar without compromising its cultural roots.

CM Adityanath further highlighted the government’s efforts to support the agrarian community, announcing that ₹561.86 crore had been disbursed under the Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana to over 11,600 families, including 431 from Ambedkar Nagar alone.

The scheme, which covers farmers, agricultural labourers, and sharecroppers, is presented not just as financial aid but as social security deeply rooted in the principle of dharma and collective care.

Appointment letters were handed over to recruits in key grassroots services such as ASHA workers, Anganwadi staff, and doctors, reinforcing the government’s focus on inclusive social development, especially in rural and semi-urban regions.

In his address, the Chief Minister also took aim at dynastic and caste-based politics, condemning it as contrary to the ideals of unity and service espoused by ancient Indian teachings. “Some people try to divide society for personal political gain.

But Uttar Pradesh is now walking on the path shown by its spiritual and cultural ethos — of unity, service, and righteousness,” he said.

Adityanath proudly declared that Uttar Pradesh has emerged from its earlier classification as a ‘Bimaru’ (ailing) state and is now one of India’s fastest-growing economies — thanks, in part, to balanced development that honours both progress and tradition.

Citing the establishment of a medical college, polytechnic institute, and improved tourism infrastructure in Ambedkar Nagar, he noted that the district is undergoing a renaissance — one that reflects the glory of its cultural past and the promise of its future.

He also extended gratitude to the voters of the Katehari Assembly constituency, who recently elected Dharmaraj Nishad in the bypolls.

Adityanath said their decision has helped strengthen the foundation for regional progress. He also suggested that rural markets with populations between 20,000 and 25,000 may be elevated to Nagar Panchayat status, providing better facilities and governance in line with holistic rural-urban integration rooted in ancient ideals of self-sufficient communities.

Overall, the Chief Minister’s visit was a resounding affirmation of the state’s cultural, religious, and social identity — an effort to build a modern Uttar Pradesh deeply anchored in the timeless wisdom of its spiritual heritage.