While the politicisation of the Kumbh Mela is something one can understand, what really catches my attention is the criticism it faces from modern Indians.
The Uttar Pradesh administration has turned Kumbh from a rural, bottom-of-the-pyramid phenomenon into an elite experience. Even the deadly 29 January stampede hasn’t dulled the sheen.
Several devotees are arriving at the bank of the Triveni Sangam—a confluence of rivers Ganga, Yamuna & Saraswati, where they performed the sacred ritual.
The pandal, turning out to be one of the Kumbh's biggest attractions, is also where the CM will be staying. Two special cottages with high-end facilities are being prepared for him.
Modi washed feet of 5 sanitation workers at 2019 Kumbh Mela. Three of them now back on duty at Maha Kumbh say they still face caste discrimination, demand better pay, permanent jobs.
On Sunday, PM Modi praised the digital initiatives for the mela, and the BJP advertised the Sah'AI'yak chatbot, which will guide visitors in more than 10 languages.
Indians see West Asia as one uninterrupted wash of Islam, but the reality is more complex. For the Druze, support from Israel—where they are a recognised minority—is now critical.
Mini deal will likely see no cut in 10% baseline tariff on Indian exports announced by Trump on 2 April, it is learnt, but additional 26% tariffs are set to be reduced.
India-Russia JV is also racing to deliver 7,000 more AK-203 assault rifles by 15 Aug. These are currently being made with 50% indigenisation and this will surge to 100% by 31 December.
Public, loud, upfront, filled with impropriety and high praise sometimes laced with insults. This is what we call Trumplomacy. But the larger objective is the same: American supremacy.
Ms. Kissu, the clairvoyant, is back in action.
The Yogi government made a mistake. Should have included her in the Mela management committee.