Sat Mar 08 16:51:48 UTC 2025: ## UP CM Extols Maharana Pratap, Condemns Akbar and Aurangzeb at Statue Unveiling

**Dadri, Uttar Pradesh:** Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday lauded Maharana Pratap, Shivaji Maharaj, and Guru Gobind Singh as true national heroes, sharply criticizing Mughal emperors Akbar and Aurangzeb. Speaking at the unveiling of a Maharana Pratap statue in Dadri, Adityanath asserted that Akbar and Aurangzeb, with their allegedly anti-Hindu policies, could never be considered heroes. He highlighted Maharana Pratap’s bravery at the Battle of Haldighati, emphasizing his ability to stand against a much larger army and reclaim lost Mewar territories. The Chief Minister also praised the legendary loyalty of Pratap’s horse, Chetak, and the enduring reverence for the Haldighati battlefield.

Adityanath stressed the importance of these historical figures as sources of inspiration for the current generation, stating that those who fail to respect them are “deformed” and in need of “treatment.” He further used the example of the Maha Kumbh Mela, dismissing rumors surrounding water purity, to illustrate the resilience of faith. His visit to Barsana the previous day also highlighted the inclusive nature of Indian festivals, contrasting with any claims of discrimination.

Beyond the historical pronouncements, Adityanath inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 97 development projects in Gautam Buddha Nagar, totaling ₹1,467 crore. These projects include a government degree college, a 100-bed hospital, and plans for an ITI and stadium. He also distributed incentives worth ₹617 crore to 14 industrial units. The Chief Minister concluded by highlighting the economic prosperity of Uttar Pradesh, attributing it to a combination of cultural heritage and divine blessings.

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