Uttar Pradesh's First AYUSH University

• 02 Jul 2025

Why in News? 

President Droupadi Murmu inaugurated Uttar Pradesh’s first AYUSH University, named Mahayogi Guru Gorakhnath AYUSH University, in Gorakhpur. 

• The President highlighted the spiritual and historical legacy of the region, stating that it is also the birthplace of Paramhansa Yogananda.

Key Points 

• Spiritual and Historical Legacy of Gorakhpur: 
  • The Nath Tradition: 
    • The Nath tradition, rooted in the teachings of Shri Adinath, Matsyendranath, and Guru Gorakhnath, traces its origins to Gorakhpur. 
    • Over time, this spiritual lineage has spread across India and reached several countries worldwide, influencing diverse yogic and ascetic practices. 
  • Role in India’s Freedom Struggles: 
    • Gorakhpur holds not just spiritual significance but also a deep historical connection to India's freedom movements. 
    • From monk-led uprisings in the 18th century to the Revolt of 1857- First War of Independence, this region has been a centre of resistance. 
    • The sacrifices of freedom fighters like Babu Bandhu Singh and Ram Prasad Bismil are closely linked to this sacred land, highlighting its legacy of courage and patriotism. 
• About Guru Gorakhnath: 
  • Gorakhnath, who likely flourished around the 11th century CE, is regarded as a revered Hindu yogi and the spiritual founder of the Kanphata yogis, a sect of ascetics known for practising Hatha Yoga. 
    • The Kanphata yogis emphasise both physical discipline and spiritual mastery, aligning with the principles of Hatha Yoga. 
  • Hatha Yoga, associated closely with Gorakhnath’s teachings, is a philosophical and spiritual system that uses control over the body as a path to spiritual perfection. 
    • This school of thought blends asceticism with intense yogic discipline, marking a departure from ritualistic or purely devotional practices. 

Paramhansa Yogananda 

• About: 
  • Paramhansa Yogananda (1893–1952) was the first Indian yoga master to establish permanent residence in the Western world. 
  • He played a pivotal role in introducing Indian spiritual philosophy to Western audiences in the early 20th century. 
• A Lasting Spiritual Legacy: 
  • While his early presence in the West had a remarkable cultural impact, Yogananda's enduring legacy lies in the spiritual awakening he inspired. 
  • He continued to lecture and write actively until his death in 1952, promoting a blend of Kriya Yoga, meditation, and universal spirituality. 
  • His seminal work, Autobiography of a Yogi, published in 1946, sparked a spiritual revolution in the West.