‘Faith being used for votes’: PM Modi targets opposition at BJP rally centred on Chhath festival

Patna: During his public rally in Muzaffarpur, Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi alleged that opposition parties, particularly the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), were insulting ‘Chhathi Maiyya’ to gain votes ahead of the state elections. Modi claimed that these parties were using the revered festival of Chhath for political mileage, which he described as “disrespectful to the faith of millions.”

Speaking at the event, Modi also revealed that the central government is working to secure UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status for Chhath Mahaparva, a major festival deeply rooted in Bihar’s culture. He said, “This is my first public rally after Chhath Puja. Our government is trying to get UNESCO heritage status for this sacred festival that celebrates the power of the Sun and nature.”

The Prime Minister praised the spirit of the people of Bihar, saying, “Yahan ki litchi jitni meethi, utni hi meethi yahan ki boli hai,” referring to the sweetness of the local dialect and the state’s famed fruit.

However, his visit drew mixed reactions from political opponents. Vikassheel Insaan Party (VIP) leader and Mahagathbandhan representative Mukesh Sahani welcomed the Prime Minister but criticised his timing. “We welcome PM Modi to Bihar, but it is sad that he and Union Home Minister Amit Shah only come during elections. After the elections, they forget about Bihar,” Sahani said.

Prime Minister Modi’s rally in Muzaffarpur was part of the BJP’s campaign outreach in Bihar ahead of the upcoming elections. His remarks on the Congress and RJD came amid a growing political battle over cultural symbolism and faith-related issues in the state.

The Chhath festival, celebrated widely across Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and parts of eastern India, is known for its deep religious and environmental significance, honouring the Sun God and Chhathi Maiyya. Modi’s statement about seeking UNESCO recognition aligns with the government’s broader push to preserve and promote traditional Indian festivals on a global platform.

The controversy over alleged “disrespect” to Chhathi Maiyya stems from statements and campaign activities that BJP leaders claim undermined the sanctity of the festival. Opposition leaders, however, have dismissed these accusations as politically motivated.

The Muzaffarpur event also saw large crowds, with visible participation from women and youth supporters. As political campaigning intensifies across Bihar, cultural and religious narratives are becoming increasingly central to party messaging.