The ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela has become a focal point for diverse discussions ranging from spirituality to socio-political issues. Adding to its significance, the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) has announced a high-profile meeting of its Margdarshak Mandal, where saints and spiritual leaders will deliberate on key issues including the "liberation of temples" from government control and Hindu claims over historical sites.
This four-day congregation, scheduled from January 24 to 27, is expected to see robust participation from saints across the nation. According to VHP spokesperson Vinod Bansal, "Freeing temples from government control will be the primary agenda, as it directly impacts the sanctity and autonomy of our religious institutions."
The VHP is currently running a nationwide campaign advocating for temple autonomy. Bansal elaborated, "The Margdarshak Mandal baithak will not only address temple-related concerns but also deliberate on contemporary issues affecting the Hindu community, such as ‘love jihad,’ ‘ghar wapsi,’ and religious conversions. These discussions aim to foster unity among Hindus, transcending caste and regional barriers."
In addition, the VHP’s Pranyas Mandal, its Board of Trustees, will meet after the Margdarshak Mandal session to further refine and implement decisions made during the gathering.
"The Maha Kumbh is a perfect backdrop for fostering unity and social harmony," Bansal noted. Highlighting the symbolism of the Kumbh, he added, "It is here that people from all walks of life gather, setting aside social and economic differences. This unity is what our community and nation need to overcome the challenges posed by our colonial past, including the entrenched caste system."
A key focus of the discussions will be countering what the VHP calls the "divisive politics" of caste-based narratives. "Our goal is to build a united Hindu society that stands strong against such political agendas," Bansal said.
The meeting coincides with growing tensions over Hindu claims to certain historical sites. In recent months, petitions have been filed regarding the Shahi Jama Masjid in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, and the Ajmer Sharif Dargah in Rajasthan. These claims have sparked legal and social debates, with some incidents escalating into violence.
A senior RSS leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, remarked, "The Maha Kumbh represents the essence of unity, bridging divides of all kinds. While narratives can be drawn politically, the event’s true purpose lies in fostering harmony and reinforcing our cultural ethos."
The VHP’s initiatives also come against the backdrop of heightened political activity. The opposition has been vocal about caste-based census demands, which have garnered support from several of the BJP’s allies.
Political analyst Sudhir Panwar observed, "The BJP faces challenges in maintaining its support base among OBCs, especially after recent setbacks like the Faizabad Lok Sabha loss. Initiatives like this are part of its strategy to consolidate its standing."
