Why do millions of people, from entire Indian villages to urbane middle managers to foreign tourists, brave the crowds at the Kumbh Mela? During this year’s 55-day pilgrimage, to Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, an estimated 100 million Hindus and others are expected to take a holy dip in the Ganges River to wash away their sins. India Ink interviewed some of them.
Bala Panditji, 32, a priest from the Rajarajeshwari Mandir, a temple in Delhi, was one among them. This is what he had to say.
Why did you come to the Kumbh Mela this year? Is it your first time?
I have been to one other Kumbh Mela. But this one seems really special, with so many people around. I come to the Kumbh because it has a great significance in our history. This was one of the only four places on Earth that the gods dropped amrit, or holy water.
How have you found it so far?
I am distressed when I see people mechanically taking a dip in the holy river. They are supposed to acknowledge their past sins and also vow to not sin anymore. They come out of the water and almost forget about these things.
Describe your journey to the Kumbh. Did you travel alone? How long did it take?
We took a train from Delhi. I met many people on the train who were also coming here for the same purpose. Really felt good.
What does religion mean to you? Do you consider yourself a religious person?
Religion means understanding oneself. The reason why people are confused all the time is because they don’t know what they want and how much they want. Once you understand yourself, you will see that you are austere and don’t need worldly embellishments to enhance your personality.
Who do you think is going to win the 2014 election?
Though I come from the south, I have lived in Delhi for a very long time. I can only speak of Delhi politics, and I feel no matter who comes into power there, they are all equal sinners. I think B.J.P. [Bharatiya Janata Party] is a lesser evil though.
(The interview was translated from Hindi.)
India Ink: Bala Panditji, a Priest from Delhi
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India Ink: Bala Panditji, a Priest from Delhi
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India Ink: Bala Panditji, a Priest from Delhi
