Prayagraj: The 2025 Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj is still weeks away, but controversy has already cast a shadow over preparations. Posters bearing the slogan “Darenge Toh Marenge” (If You Fear, You Die) have made an appearance at several prominent locations in the city, sparking a heated debate.
Origin Of The Slogan
The slogan, attributed to Jagadguru Ramanandacharya, has added a sharp edge to the already polarized political and social discourse ahead of the grand religious gathering. These provocative posters follow on the heels of an earlier slogan by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, “Batenge Toh Katenge” (If We Divide, We Perish), which he introduced during an August 26 speech in Agra.
That statement, made in the context of Hindu minorities facing persecution in Bangladesh after an August 5 military coup, was later echoed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 5. The Maha Kumbh, set to begin on Pausha Purnima (January 13, 2025), is expected to attract millions of devotees and international visitors. However, the appearance of these posters, prominently displayed near landmarks like the Nag Vasuki temple, has diverted attention from preparations to political and ideological clashes.
Jagadguru Ramanandacharya, the founder of the Vaishnava South Peeth in Nanij Dham, is no stranger to using public campaigns to make bold statements. Ahead of the 2019 Kumbh, he had spearheaded a campaign advocating the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. Now, his “Darenge Toh Marenge” slogan, displayed alongside his image, has reignited debates on religious and social unity.
The posters have underscored the escalating political undertones surrounding the Kumbh. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s “Batenge Toh Katenge” remark was a warning against internal divisions, which he said could weaken the country. He emphasized the importance of unity, linking his message to the challenges faced by Hindus in neighbouring Bangladesh. With both slogans gaining traction, the Maha Kumbh is becoming as much a political battleground as a spiritual congregation. Observers fear the controversy could overshadow the sanctity of the event and escalate tensions between different factions.
About The Dual Challenge Faced By The Opposition
The administration faces the dual challenge of ensuring a smooth event while addressing the ideological conflicts arising from these slogans. The stakes are high for Prayagraj as it prepares to host one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. Balancing tradition, politics, and modern-day sensitivities will test the organizers’ resolve in the coming weeks.
