Daijiworld Media Network - Lucknow

Lucknow, Apr 1: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has dismissed growing speculation about his future as a prime ministerial candidate, asserting that politics is not his full-time profession, and that he remains a Yogi at heart.

In an interview with PTI, Adityanath reiterated his commitment to serving the people of Uttar Pradesh, stating, “I am the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, and the party has placed me here to serve the people of the state.” When questioned about the increasing calls for him to become the prime minister, he responded, “Politics is not a full-time job for me. Ultimately, I am a Yogi (monk) at heart.”

The Chief Minister also mentioned that his time in politics has a limit, saying, “There will be a time frame for this as well.”

On the intersection of religion and politics, Adityanath emphasized the importance of serving a higher purpose. “If politics is driven by self-interest, it will create problems. But if it is for the greater good, it will provide solutions. We must choose between being part of the problem or the solution, and I believe this is what religion teaches us,” he explained.

He further clarified that Indian tradition has never linked religion with selfish motives, with its goals focused on both worldly progress and spiritual liberation. “Politics is merely a platform to advance the spirit of service,” Adityanath stated.

When asked whether he views himself more as a religious figure or a political leader, he responded, “I work as a citizen and do not consider myself special. As a citizen, my constitutional duties come first.” He added that the safety of the nation directly ensures the security of religion, and that the path to welfare is paved when religion is secure.

Finally, when questioned about his legacy, Adityanath emphasized that it is one’s work, not their name, that should be remembered. “One’s identity should be through their work, not their name,” he concluded.