Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday paid tribute to Rana Sanga, the legendary Rajput warrior-king, on his birth anniversary, calling him a timeless symbol of patriotism and courage.
Taking to social media platform X, the Chief Minister posted in Hindi:
“On the birth anniversary of the mighty Rana Sanga Ji, who was dedicated to the protection of dharma, heartfelt salutations! His tale of valor, embodying patriotism and sacrifice, is a golden chapter in Indian history. His bravery will continue to nourish the spirit of self-respect in the land of Bharat for centuries to come.”
The occasion was marked by gatherings of Kshatriya groups across Uttar Pradesh, with a major show of strength held in Agra. The commemorations come amid recent controversies involving Samajwadi Party MP Ramji Lal Suman, whose remarks referring to Rana Sanga as a “traitor” sparked widespread outrage among Rajput communities.
Earlier, on April 8, around three dozen Kshatriya groups, including Karni Sena and Akhil Bhartiya Kshatriya Mahasabha, gathered in Lucknow demanding an apology from Suman. The protest took place at the prominent 1090 Crossing.
The situation escalated on March 27, when Karni Sena activists allegedly vandalised Suman’s residence near Hari Parvat Chauraha in Agra. Several vehicles were damaged, chairs and windows were broken in protest against his controversial remarks made in Parliament.
Following the incident, Agra Police registered an FIR against unidentified individuals, even as political tensions rose. Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticized the state’s law and order and held CM Adityanath accountable for any harm to the MP.
He also accused the BJP government of nurturing a “hidden underground force” that he claims is “targeting opposition voices and humiliating citizens.”
Despite the controversy, tributes to Rana Sanga remained the focal point of the day, with many highlighting his legacy as an emblem of Rajput pride and resistance.