Pic: 54-kg-laddu cake marks UP CM Yogi Adityanath's 54th birthday

Supporters of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath celebrated his 54th birthday in Varanasi on Friday with a 54-kg laddu cake and a plantation drive featuring 54 saplings.

The celebrations took place at the 51-foot-tall Varad Anjaneya Hanuman Temple, where a large gathering of supporters assembled to mark the occasion.

Organisers said the 54-kg cake symbolised the chief minister’s age, while the plantation of 54 saplings coincided with World Environment Day.

Photographs and displays highlighting welfare schemes and development projects undertaken by the Uttar Pradesh government under Adityanath’s leadership were showcased at the temple premises during the event.

A special prayer ceremony and aarti were organised, with devotees and supporters offering wishes for the chief minister’s good health, long life and continued leadership of the state.

Born on June 5, 1972, Yogi Adityanath is currently the longest-serving chief minister of Uttar Pradesh.

The birthday celebrations in Varanasi reflected both public support for the BJP leader and the state government’s emphasis on environmental initiatives through plantation activities linked to World Environment Day observances.

YOGI’S ECO-FRIENDLY CAMPAIGN

Coinciding with his birthday and World Environment Day, Adityanath launched a statewide plantation campaign from Lucknow’s Kukrail forest area under the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' initiative.

The state government has set a target of planting five crore saplings in a single day, with responsibilities assigned across departments, divisions and districts.

Urging citizens to participate, the chief minister called tree plantation a duty towards motherhood, nature and the nation.

Known for keeping his birthday celebrations low-key, Adityanath chose to mark the occasion by promoting environmental conservation through a mass plantation drive.

PM MODI LEADS BIRTHDAY WISHES

Prime Minister Narendra Modi led political leaders in extending birthday greetings to the UP CM on his 54th birthday.

“Best wishes to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath Ji on his birthday. His work towards the state’s progress is noteworthy. He has always focused on improving the quality of life for people and ensuring all-round growth. Praying for his long and healthy life,” PM Modi posted on X.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also greeted the chief minister, saying, "Heartfelt birthday wishes to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Shri @myogiadityanath ji. Under the leadership of Modi ji, the double-engine government of the state is setting new benchmarks for good governance and public welfare. I pray to God for your excellent health and long life".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also extended birthday greetings to Yogi Adityanath, lauding his role in advancing Uttar Pradesh through improved governance, security, development and welfare initiatives.

BJP President Nitin Nabin also conveyed his greetings, praying for Adityanath’s well-being, longevity and continued strength to serve the people of the state.

BSP chief Mayawati also conveyed greetings, writing on X, "Heartfelt birthday greetings to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister and senior BJP leader Yogi Adityanath, along with best wishes for his good health and a long life".

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With inputs by Manjeet Negi