Patna:
Gaya city in Bihar will now be known as ‘Gaya ji’. This decision was taken in a state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.
After the meeting of the Additional Chief Secretary of the state, Siddharth, briefing reporters that the decision was taken in view of local sentiments and historical and religious significance of cities.
Taking X, Sanjay Kumar Jha, National Executive President of Janata Dal United (JDU) thanked CM Nitish Kumar for changing the name of the city
He said, “I am grateful to the Honorable Chief Minister from below my heart for this important decision of name and hearty congratulations and wish all the residents of ‘Gayji’,” he said.
BJP MP Ravi Shankar Prasad also welcomed the decision and said that this decision throws light on the religious significance of Gaya.
“The state cabinet’s decision is a matter of reception and pride to change the name of Gaya as ‘Gayaji’. This decision not only highlights the religious significance of Gaya, but also reflects the NDA government’s dedication to the Sanatan culture and commitment to the conservation of religious places,” Prasad has written on X.
Gaya Town is known for its religious importance. Millions of tourists from all over the world visit the sang during ‘Pitarpaksha’ every year to offer ‘Pind Daan’ to the souls of the ancestors.
Gaya was part of the ancient Magadha Empire. The city is situated on the banks of the Phalgu River. Hrils Mangla-Gauri, Shring-Sethan, Ram-Shila and Brahmayoni surround it with three sides. Gaya is the most attractive destination Vishnupada Temple. The temple is situated on the banks of the Phalgu River and has the footprint of Vishnu provoked in a block of basalt. People believe that Lord Vishnu killed Gaiasura by placing his foot on Gaiasura’s chest.
Bodh Gaya is also located in Gaya which is one of the most important and sacred Buddhist pilgrimage center in the world. It was under a banyan tree, Bodhi tree, Gautama gained the highest knowledge to become Buddha.
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