India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in sacred rituals at the Maha Kumbh Mela festival, a massive gathering of devout Hindus that takes place every 12 years. However, his visit has been marred by controversy following a deadly stampede last week and allegations of a cover-up.
India’s Prime Minister Takes Holy Dip at Maha Kumbh Mela
Modi took a ritual bath on a visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela, which is currently underway in Prayagraj. The event is the largest gathering in the world and takes place every 12 years.
The Maha Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival held every 12 years in Allahabad, India.
It is one of the largest gatherings of people in the world, attracting over 100 million pilgrims.
The festival commemorates the mythological event of Lord Shiva and his consort Ganga, where four demons were defeated by the gods, releasing divine nectar into the Ganges River.
Pilgrims take dips in the sacred waters to cleanse their souls and seek spiritual enlightenment.
What is the Significance of Maha Kumbh Mela?
The festival attracts millions of devout Hindus who congregate at the confluence of the holy rivers Ganges, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati to bathe in the water. According to Hindu beliefs, taking a dip in these waters can cleanse past sins and liberate individuals from the cycle of rebirth, ultimately leading to ‘salvation’.
Hinduism is a complex and diverse faith with a rich history.
At its core, Hinduism believes in the concept of 'Brahman' , the ultimate reality and unchanging essence of the universe.
Hindus also believe in the law of karma, which states that an individual's actions in this life will determine their fate in the next.
The four primary goals of Hindu life are dharma (duty), artha (wealth), kama (pleasure), and moksha (liberation).
Additionally, Hinduism recognizes a vast pantheon of deities, each with unique powers and attributes.
Modi’s Visit Amid Controversy
Modi‘s visit comes a week after a deadly stampede at the gathering left dozens dead. Official figures put the death toll at 30, but opposition leaders claim that the numbers are much higher. They have accused Modi‘s federal government and the Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party‘s government in Uttar Pradesh of hiding numbers and details on the incident.
Local Elections Coincide with Prime Minister’s Visit
Modi‘s visit to the Maha Kumbh Mela coincided with local elections kicking off in Delhi, the Indian capital. The prime minister’s presence at the event has sparked controversy, with opposition leaders questioning the timing of his visit amidst allegations of a cover-up.
