Ek Diya Shaheedon Ke Naam at Gorakhnath Temple: CM Yogi Adityanath Lights Lamps in Tribute to Martyrs

On the evening of Monday, 9 November 2026, the day after Diwali, the sacred premises of Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur were bathed in the soft glow of 11,000 earthen lamps. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who is also the Gorakshpeethadhishwar (head priest of the Gorakhnath Math), took part in the moving programme "Ek Diya Shaheedon Ke Naam" (a lamp in the name of the martyrs) to honour the soldiers who laid down their lives for the nation.

At a glance

• What: "Ek Diya Shaheedon Ke Naam", a lamp-lighting tribute to martyrs
• Where: Bhim Sarovar and the open-air theatre, Gorakhnath Temple, Gorakhpur
• When: Monday, 9 November 2026, the day after Diwali
• Lamps: 11,000 earthen diyas
• Organised by: Bhojpuri Association of India (BHAI)

The Sacred Ceremony at Bhim Sarovar

The programme began near the historic Bhim Sarovar within the temple complex. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath lit the first lamp as a mark of respect and gratitude to the fallen soldiers, and then offered floral tributes before the photographs of the martyrs, remembering their courage, sacrifice and devotion to the motherland.

The entire temple premises were then illuminated with 11,000 earthen lamps. Their golden light, reflected on the waters of Bhim Sarovar, created a serene yet powerful atmosphere that blended devotion with patriotism.

News agency IANS shared visuals of the programme: IANS post on X.

Organised with Devotion and Cultural Pride

The event was organised by the Bhojpuri Association of India (BHAI). Alongside the lamp-lighting, a cultural programme was held at the open-air theatre in the temple premises, where artists presented patriotic songs and performances celebrating the spirit of sacrifice.

BHAI president and folk singer Rakesh Srivastava presented a memento to the Chief Minister. Gorakhpur Mayor Manglesh Srivastava and MLAs Fateh Bahadur Singh, Vipin Singh and Pradeep Shukla were among those present, PTI reported.

Rakesh Srivastava has said the idea of lighting lamps near Bhim Sarovar in memory of the martyrs first came to him around 15 years ago. The programme is now an annual tradition at the temple on the day after Diwali, a way for the community to thank the bravehearts who keep the nation safe.

Spiritual Significance of the Occasion

Gorakhnath Temple holds a unique place in the spiritual and cultural life of Uttar Pradesh. As the seat of the Nath tradition of Guru Gorakhnath and the spiritual home of Yogi Adityanath, the temple regularly hosts programmes that connect devotion with service to the nation. On the following day the Chief Minister also led Govardhan Puja at the temple's gaushala.

Lighting lamps for the martyrs on the day after Diwali carries special meaning: the festival of light is extended to honour those whose sacrifice protects the light of freedom and security for every citizen.

A Moment of Collective Gratitude

As the 11,000 diyas glowed across the temple complex, devotees stood in silence, offering prayers not only to Lord Gorakhnath but also to the known and unknown soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. The programme combined the spiritual energy of the Nath Peeth with the spirit of national gratitude.

While Diwali lights celebrate prosperity and joy, "Ek Diya Shaheedon Ke Naam" at Gorakhnath Temple reminded everyone that the true light of the nation is kept alive by the courage of its martyrs.

Har Har Mahadev. Jai Hind.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is "Ek Diya Shaheedon Ke Naam"?

An annual programme at Gorakhnath Temple in Gorakhpur, held on the day after Diwali, in which earthen lamps are lit in memory of soldiers who died for the nation.

When was it held in 2026?

On the evening of Monday, 9 November 2026.

How many lamps were lit at Gorakhnath Temple?

11,000 earthen lamps.

Who organises the programme?

The Bhojpuri Association of India (BHAI), at the Gorakhnath Temple premises.