In a unique display of political devotion, a supporter of the Samajwadi Party (SP) took a ritual bath in the Ganga river holding a portrait of the party's founder, the late Mulayam Singh Yadav. This symbolic act came after the Magh Mela authorities in Prayagraj denied permission to install an idol of the former chief minister on the festival grounds.
A Novel Protest at Paush Purnima
The incident occurred on the first major bathing day of the Magh Mela, Paush Purnima. SP supporter Saurabh entered the holy waters of the Ganga carrying a portrait of 'Netaji' Mulayam Singh Yadav. He performed the ritual bathing while raising slogans in praise of the former chief minister, showcasing his commitment to the party's founder and its current leadership under Akhilesh Yadav.
Several devotees present at the ghat captured the moment on their mobile phones. The video quickly gained traction and was widely circulated on various social media platforms, drawing significant attention to the supporter's unconventional method of paying homage.
The Idol Controversy and Party's Clarification
This public display followed a decision by the Magh Mela administration to deny permission for installing an idol of Mulayam Singh Yadav at the Mulayam Singh Smriti Seva Sansthan camp in sector 6. In response, the Samajwadi Party issued a clarification, stating that no statue of their founder would be installed at the camp.
Instead, the party chose to place an idol of Radha-Krishna at the site. The camp was recently inaugurated by the Leader of Opposition in the Uttar Pradesh Assembly, Mata Prasad Pandey.
Prioritizing Harmony Over Symbolism
Addressing the media on the issue, Mata Prasad Pandey explained the party's reasoning. He stated that the decision to forgo Mulayam's idol was taken to avoid any potential dispute and was in accordance with the directions of party president Akhilesh Yadav.
Pandey emphasized that the camp was established as a social harmony centre, with the primary aim of promoting brotherhood and providing shelter and support to the weak and needy. He clarified that installing Mulayam's idol was not considered a crime, but in the larger interest of maintaining harmony during the massive religious congregation, the leadership opted for a deity's idol instead.
The episode highlights the deep reverence for Mulayam Singh Yadav within the party's rank and file, even as the official party line prioritizes social cohesion during the sacred gathering. The Magh Mela, a smaller version of the Kumbh, is a significant Hindu festival held annually in Prayagraj.
