CM Chandrababu Links Spiritual Heritage with Andhra's Growth Vision

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday called for a balanced approach to technological advancement and spiritual living , saying that rapid progress in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies should be complemented by strong family values, mental well-being and India's rich spiritual traditions. Addressing thousands of devotees during the Sri Jagannath Rath Yatra organised by ISKCON in Amaravati, the Chief Minister stressed that sustainable development requires both innovation and moral grounding.

The annual Rath Yatra, inspired by the centuries-old festival in Puri, Odisha , witnessed large participation from devotees. Chandrababu offered special prayers to Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra before performing the traditional 'Chhera Pahanra' ritual, ceremonially sweeping the path before the chariot with a golden broom . The ritual, historically performed by the Gajapati Kings of Puri, symbolises humility and equality before the divine. He later joined devotees in pulling the sacred chariot.

In his address, the Chief Minister expressed concern over the decline of joint family systems , saying they once served as the strongest support structure in Indian society. The rise of nuclear families, he observed, has contributed to loneliness and reduced emotional resilience. Comparing life to a chariot, he said individuals must learn to control their minds just as a charioteer guides horses, enabling them to overcome challenges with discipline and confidence.

Highlighting the government's commitment to preserving religious heritage, Chandrababu said Andhra Pradesh plans to facilitate the construction of 5,000 temples with the support of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) while ensuring the preservation of temple traditions and sanctity.

The Chief Minister also said the state is aggressively promoting AI, data centres, semiconductor investments and quantum computing to transform Andhra Pradesh into a technology-driven economy. However, he cautioned that technological growth should be accompanied by yoga, meditation, pranayama and spirituality , which play a crucial role in reducing stress and improving mental health.

He further warned that excessive dependence on social media and digital platforms is weakening interpersonal relationships, increasing anxiety and affecting family life. Technology, he said, should remain a means to improve human life rather than replace meaningful social connections.

The event was attended by Union Minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar , Minister Narayana , spiritual leaders and thousands of devotees. Chandrababu's message on integrating innovation with spirituality, cultural values and family bonds resonated strongly with the gathering, underscoring the need for holistic development in an increasingly digital era.