Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s recent ‘Mrityu Kumbh’ (Kumbh of Death) remark has ignited widespread criticism and a political showdown. Her comments, referring to past stampede-related deaths and alleged crowd mismanagement at the ongoing Maha Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, have drawn strong reactions from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused her of being hostile toward Hindus.
### Controversial Remarks on Kumbh Mela’s 144-Year Cycle
In a similar controversy, Banerjee questioned the ‘144-year cycle’ of the Kumbh Mela in Prayagraj, further fueling political tensions. She stated, “Gangasagar happens every year. Kumbh happens once every 12 years. As far as I know, in the temple of Puri, the deity made of neem wood has many rules and regulations. As far as I know, the neem wood idol in the Puri temple is replaced once every 12 years. Every place has its own rules. So, those who say Kumbh happens after 144 years… it happened in 2013 as well, as far as I’ve heard. If I’m mistaken, please correct me.”
Banerjee added, “It is not correct to say that the Kumbh is happening after 144 years. You are controlling the media, and many people have died. Many families have lost their lives in the stampede. I am not commenting on those who are taking a dip. Everyone has their own belief. I am not saying anything about the devotees. Religion is personal. Everyone believes what they believe. Saying that Kumbh happens after 144 years or happened 144 years ago is not correct. We request those who are knowledgeable to present the correct information.”
### BJP Leader Suvendu Adhikari’s Reaction
Bengal Opposition Leader Suvendu Adhikari responded to Banerjee’s remarks, mocking her as someone with a “Master’s in Religious History.” He shared excerpts on the Maha Kumbh and its auspicious 144-year cycle, tagging CM Mamata Banerjee, UP CM Yogi Adityanath, and various religious wings of the BJP.
Adhikari stated, “Hon’ble CM Mamata Banerjee who has a Master’s degree in ‘Religious’ History; is asserting that the 144-year Mahakumbh cycle is ‘incorrect & hyped’. Historical records, astrological & astronomical science confirm its legitimacy. Her repeated misleading statements appear to be politically motivated and an attempt to undermine and belittle the holy events of Sanatan Dharma, which is also influenced by her appeasement brand of politics.”
He further added, “As she is dismissing the 144-year cycle, then she also must be skeptical about the 12-year and 6-year cycles of Purna Kumbh and Ardha Kumbh Melas respectively. This selective skepticism exposes her anti-Hindu political agenda.”
### Mamata Banerjee’s Criticism of Yogi Adityanath
Banerjee also criticized the Yogi Adityanath-led Uttar Pradesh government, urging them to fulfill their promise of compensating the families of those who lost their lives during the religious gathering. “It would be my demand to the Uttar Pradesh government, to Yogi Adityanath, that since they have announced ex-gratia for the families of those killed in Kumbh Mela, they must immediately release the amounts to them,” Banerjee said.
She added, “There are many (Kumbh pilgrims) who have died in accidents, or while attempting to board trains and they should all be compensated.”
The Uttar Pradesh government announced a compensation of Rs 25 lakh each for the families of people who lost their lives during the Maha Kumbh, which began on January 13 and will end on Wednesday.
As the political tensions continue to rise, the controversy surrounding Mamata Banerjee’s remarks and the Kumbh Mela’s cycle remains a focal point of debate.
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