The phrase 'One Holi, 52 Fridays' is stirring heated political debates nationwide. Originating in Sambhal, this slogan is now reverberating in Bihar's political arena. However, some JDU leaders, allied with BJP in Bihar, are maintaining their distance from this slogan.
No festival is untouched by political maneuvers. Just before this Holi, UP's Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath drew a political line with the slogan '52 Fridays-One Holi' in Sambhal. Is this a new political catalyst for Sambhal, now being tested in Bihar's upcoming elections?
Source: aajtak
80 vs. 20 Dynamics in UP
During the 2022 UP assembly elections, the '80 vs. 20' tactic was prevalent. However, with the 2024 elections, if Hindu votes splinter, BJP's seats might decrease. Thus, the 'One Holi-52 Fridays' initiative is perceived as a means to maintain the 80 vs. 20 political continuity. Hence, the counter-narrative of 85 vs. 15 emerged—85% representing backward classes, Dalits, and minorities, and 15% being upper-caste Hindus.
Adityanath declared that those opposing Ram Temple or Kashi Vishwanath represent the 20%. His strategy to cement the majority vote is now extending from UP to Bihar, enveloping this Holi's scenario within the 80 vs. 20 framework tied to Fridays.
Source: aajtak
Holi and Ramadan Fridays Converging?
A question arises: Is Holi overlapping with a Ramadan Friday for the first time? It's been 64 years since Holi last coincided with Ramadan's Friday, previous being on March 4, 1961.
The third notable point is that with no record of unrest in 1961, and a similar overlap occurring in 2022, questions arise about political motives. Is it about projecting opposition's preference towards Ramadan over Holi, or showing commendable law and order post-event?
Sambhal's Religious Processions: A Political Display
Images from Sambhal this Monday portrayed a significant political message. After past violence at Sambhal's Shahi Jama Masjid survey, a Chaupai procession was held under police protection during Rang Ekadashi, displaying religious harmony. This narrative, tying the '52 Fridays and One Holi' theme to modern political strategy, suggests peace prevails where discord once dominated.
Revolutionary Unity Amidst Political Controversy
Historically, revolutionaries like Bal Gangadhar Tilak united people via festivals. Yet, today's politics paint festivals with controversy. In West Bengal, accusations flew over Saraswati Puja bans for appeasement politics. Occurrences like Ram Navami and Muharram processions often lead to tensions.
Events like Karwa Chauth evoke mehendi controversies, and Navratri sees debates over meat shop closures. Even during the Sawan month, identity politics emerge over Kaanwar Yatra routes, highlighting ongoing legal debates.
