Congress Leaders Embrace Hindu Rituals Amidst Political Strategy Discussions

Shimla: In a series of recent events, prominent Congress leaders have actively participated in Hindu religious ceremonies, signaling a potential strategic shift within the party to engage more deeply with the Hindu electorate.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, accompanied by his family, took a holy dip at the Triveni Sangam during the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj on February 25, 2025. Expressing his joy, Sukhu described the experience as spiritually uplifting.

This participation underscores the Congress party’s efforts to honor India’s rich cultural traditions and connect with the broader Hindu community.

The Maha Kumbh Mela, a massive Hindu pilgrimage, has seen an influx of over 620 million devotees, as reported by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.

However, Sukhu’s visit has not been without controversy. Leader of the Opposition and former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, Jai Ram Thakur, criticized the timing, noting that while devotees gathered at the Triveni Sangam, Sukhu was reportedly on a private trip abroad.

Thakur remarked, “At a time when the people were taking a holy dip in Triveni Sangam, the CM was abroad.”

Similarly, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has been notably active in religious engagements. He, along with his wife Usha, took a holy dip at the Sangam in Prayagraj during the Kumbh Mela. Shivakumar’s religious outreach has been increasingly pronounced, with visits to various temples and participation in significant Hindu rituals.

When questioned about these activities, he stated, “I am a Hindu, I will die a Hindu. Yet, I respect all religions.” This approach contrasts with Chief Minister Siddaramaiah’s steadfast secular stance, highlighting differing perspectives within the party on religious outreach.

These developments come at a time when the Congress party is navigating its position on religious engagement. While some leaders advocate for embracing cultural and religious events to resonate with the Hindu electorate, others caution against aligning too closely with religious symbolism, emphasizing the party’s secular foundations.

The participation of Congress leaders in Hindu rituals reflects an ongoing discourse within the party about balancing secular principles with cultural engagement. As the political landscape evolves, the Congress party’s approach to religious outreach may play a pivotal role in shaping its connection with diverse voter bases across India.

Sunil Chadha