The Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) on January 31 expressed its disdain for ‘anti-Hindu forces’ who criticised the arrangements for the Mahakumbh Mela in Prayagraj following a stampede incident. In response to comparisons made on social media between the Maha Kumbh and the Hajj pilgrimage, the VHP condemned these remarks, highlighting the stark differences between the two religious events.
Vishwa Hindu Parishad has come down heavily against comparisons of MahaKumbh with Hajj:
“Some anti-Hindu elements are comparing the arrangements for the Maha Kumbh, which hosts over 40 crore devotees, with the Hajj that sees only a few lakh people. When a person returns from… pic.twitter.com/USdOXTrZji
— Megh Updates 🚨™ (@MeghUpdates) January 31, 2025
VHP’s Response to Hajj Comparisons
The controversy began when some individuals on social media drew parallels between the Mahakumbh, which attracts over 40 lakh devotees, and the Hajj, which sees only a few lakh pilgrims. The VHP lashed out at the individuals making such comparisons, calling it an insult to the mental faculties of those involved. The organisation pointed out that while Hajj is a small-scale pilgrimage, the Mahakumbh is an unparalleled spiritual gathering that manages to host millions of devotees from around the world.
The VHP spokesperson emphasised that the Mahakumbh serves as an event for spiritual awakening and human welfare. “After bathing in the Triveni Sangam, a person takes a vow for human welfare,” the spokesperson said, in stark contrast to Hajj, where, according to the VHP, pilgrims return with heightened fanaticism.
The VHP also noted the security and health arrangements at the Mahakumbh, contrasting them with the issues faced by Hajj pilgrims. Drawing attention to the over 1,300 deaths during Hajj last year, the VHP questioned, “Has anyone died due to hunger, thirst, or lack of medical treatment or accommodation in the Mahakumbh?” They highlighted the smooth management of the Kumbh, underscoring that the event has so far avoided major casualties despite its massive turnout.
Praise for Uttar Pradesh Government’s Efforts
Vinod Bansal, the VHP National Spokesperson, commended the Uttar Pradesh government for its quick response following the stampede in Prayagraj. He pointed out that the government controlled the situation within an hour, allowing millions of devotees to continue their pilgrimage and return home safely. The VHP further praised the logistical arrangements, including over 400 trains operating from Prayagraj in a single day—a feat described as a record in itself.
Bansal also lauded the selflessness of the seers, who voluntarily gave up their designated time for the holy bath in order to ensure that devotees had the opportunity to bathe in the Triveni Sangam. He highlighted the contrast between the devotion of the seers at the Mahakumbh and the violence witnessed during Hajj, pointing out the difference between “service, dedication, sacrifice, and human welfare” on the one hand and “religious fanaticism” on the other.
Uttar Pradesh Government’s Measures
The Uttar Pradesh government, in response to the tragic incident, has introduced various measures to prevent any recurrence of the stampede. A three-member judicial commission has been set up to investigate the causes of the incident and ensure that necessary corrective actions are implemented. These steps reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining safety and ensuring the smooth conduct of the Mahakumbh for the millions of devotees who participate in it every year.
The VHP has emphasised the event’s commitment to the welfare of the devotees and its peaceful, humanitarian nature. The comparison between the Mahakumbh and Hajj, according to the VHP, not only undermines the unique cultural and spiritual value of the Kumbh but also fails to recognise the immense efforts taken to ensure the safety and well-being of participants in one of the world’s largest religious gatherings.
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