Varanasi’s timeless ghats along the Ganga River became a focal point of inter-state political spirituality on Monday, as women devotees conducted elaborate pujas to ensure the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) triumph in West Bengal’s assembly poll counting. Starting with the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti and extending to Surya Upasana, the rituals were timed perfectly with the 8 AM commencement of result declarations in the eastern state.
‘Our prayers and Aarti are for BJP’s government formation,’ shared one woman, her voice resonating with hope amid the river’s gentle flow. ‘Change is imperative in Bengal; we want BJP to win.’ This sentiment was widespread, rooted in years of perceived struggles under TMC governance.
A second devotee highlighted the symbolic acts: ‘Shankhnaad and sun worship were done so BJP can seize power. We’ve faced immense difficulties and refuse further suffering.’ Yet another affirmed their commitment: ‘Prayers for BJP’s massive majority, performed with utmost devotion.’
West Bengal’s elections, conducted across two phases with record 93% participation, pitted incumbent TMC against resurgent BJP. Most exit polls heralded TMC’s ouster after 15 years, paving way for BJP rule. Left Front (with AISF) and Congress fought independently, aiming to break their 2021 shutouts—TMC’s 216, BJP’s 77, AISF’s solitary win.
From Varanasi’s spiritual epicenter, these women’s rituals underscore the deep intertwining of faith and politics in India’s diverse landscape, as Bengal’s fate hung in balance, potentially marking a seismic shift.
