Mahant Digvijay Nath
Former Mahant of Gorakhnath Math and Indian Politician
🌍 Indian · Born May 22, 1894 · Died September 28, 1969
About
Mahant Digvijay Nath was an influential Indian priest, politician, and the chief priest of the Gorakhnath Math in Gorakhpur, India. Born as Nanhu Singh in Udaipur, Rajasthan, he was initiated into the Nath monastic order under Mahant Baba Gambhir Nath. Digvijay Nath played a pivotal role in shaping the political and social landscape of post-independence India, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. He was a prominent leader of the Hindu Mahasabha, serving as its general secretary and later president. Under his leadership, the Gorakhnath Math became a hub of political activism, closely aligning with Hindu nationalist movements. He was actively involved in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement in Ayodhya during the late 1940s, which significantly mobilized Hindu sentiments. Digvijay Nath was also elected as a Member of Parliament to the fourth Lok Sabha in 1967 from the Gorakhpur constituency as an independent candidate supported by the Hindu Mahasabha. He established several educational institutions in Gorakhpur under the Maharana Pratap Shiksha Parishad, contributing immensely to local education. He passed away on September 28, 1969, leaving a legacy of politically active monasticism that was carried forward by his successors, Mahant Avaidyanath and Yogi Adityanath.
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Joined Non-Cooperation Movement
Briefly joined the Indian National Congress and participated in the Non-Cooperation Movement before aligning with Hindu nationalist groups.
Founded Maharana Pratap Shiksha Parishad
Established the educational council to set up schools and colleges in the Gorakhpur region.
Became Mahant of Gorakhnath Math
Succeeded to the position of chief priest of the highly influential Gorakhnath Math temple complex.
Joined Hindu Mahasabha
Became an active member of the right-wing Hindu nationalist political party, eventually rising to become its president.
Led Ram Janmabhoomi Movement
Organized a nine-day recital of the Ramcharitmanas, culminating in the placement of Ram Lalla idols inside the Babri Masjid.
Elected to Lok Sabha
Won the parliamentary election from the Gorakhpur constituency to serve as a Member of Parliament.
Passed Away
Died in Gorakhpur, leaving his disciple Mahant Avaidyanath as his successor.
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All data sourced from verified public references.