Faith that feeds

The 2019 Kumbh contributed as much as Rs 1.2 lakh crore to the economy of Uttar Pradesh. This time, more than Rs 2 lakh crore of economic impact is expected to emanate from this Mahakumbh, with an estimated Rs 5,000 per head. The Confederation of All India Traders says how different industries benefited. To put that into perspective, the food and beverage industry alone is expected to garner Rs 20,000 crore, and religious items and offerings will contribute another Rs 20,000 crore

- GOURAV VALLABH The writer is Professor of Finance - XLRI Xavier School of Management and a BJP leader

Faith is the bird that sings of light even before the dawn has broken.

These are words by Tagore, reminding one of the eternal powers of belief to uplift and inspire during the bleakest of times. However, recent comments by Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on the holy Mahakumbh event – that taking a dip in the holy Ganga neither removes poverty nor addresses the challenges of the nation – are not only highly disappointing but also lead to a stark reflection of Congress's long-standing disregard for India's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

This is not the first time, nor is he the only Congress leader to trivialise Hindu beliefs in such a cavalier manner. Yet, each incident of their rhetoric is more ridiculous and, quite frankly, enraging than the last.

Even leaving aside the fact that they never seem to make such allegations against other religions – an act of blatant hypocrisy – the statements fall like ninepins when examined. Kharge's statement lacked any factual basis; it had reeked of crass political opportunism, concocted to create a fabricated narrative of "development versus faith."

Why should faith be painted as one pole in a tug-of-war and development as another? History has taught us that they are not only compatible but often reinforcing elements of each other in determining the advancement of a nation.

What makes this attack particularly disheartening is the ignorance it reveals about the true essence of the Mahakumbh. Far from being a mere spectacle, the Mahakumbh profoundly celebrates faith, unity, and collective purpose.

It serves as a reminder of our shared heritage, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility among millions. Contrary to what Kharge suggests, such events are not a distraction from development – they are a driving force for social cohesion, economic activity, and cultural preservation.