Tradition Interrupted: Varanasi's Shiv Baraat Procession Rescheduled

The annual 'Shiv Baraat' procession in Varanasi, traditionally held on Maha Shivratri, has been rescheduled to the day after due to expected crowd influx at Kumbh Mela. This decision, meant for crowd management, has sparked a political controversy and calls for intervention from Prime Minister Modi.

In a significant departure from tradition, the 'Shiv Baraat' procession in Varanasi will be held a day later than its usual Maha Shivratri timing due to anticipated crowd congestion from the Kumbh Mela. This marks the first change in the 42-year-old tradition.

The shift has incited political unrest, with Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai criticizing the BJP government's influence over Varanasi's cultural practices. Rai has labeled the change as an administrative interference with the city's spiritual ethos.

As the political debate intensifies, Rai has called upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also the MP for Varanasi, to ensure the procession proceeds on its traditional schedule, amidst concerns for preserving sacred customs.

(With inputs from agencies.)