UP cinema halls to screen Kumbh Mela logo before movies
As per a new diktat by Yogi Adityanath government, along with the national anthem, cinema halls in UP will also show the Kumbh Mela logo before screening a film. This is to promote the festival, which UNESCO has recognized in its list of intangible world heritage. What's more, cine-goers will also know more about its significance. But, isn't this going a little too far?
What is the Kumbh Mela?
The Kumbh Mela is held every three years. It is a pilgrimage of faith as Hindus wish to wash off their past sins. Hindus believe that those who bathe in the Kumbh's sacred waters on particular dates, as per zodiac positions, step closer to salvation.
How is the UP government preparing for the Kumbh Mela?
Kumbh Mela is scheduled to be held in January 2019 in Allahabad. It was last held in 2013 and was attended by 10cr people. This year, 12cr people are expected to attend. Reportedly, the fair's terminology has been changed. Now, the Ardh Kumbh is to be known as Kumbh. About Rs. 2,500cr will be devoted for the Allahabad Kumbh, two times more than 2013.
Efforts are on to give visitors an "enhanced pilgrim experience"
Reportedly, this year, the Kumbh will not only be limited to the holy dip. Efforts are on to give visitors an "enhanced pilgrim experience." For the first time, shuttle buses will be used so that pilgrims don't need to travel by foot. Purportedly, over 200 projects by 16 departments are being developed at lightning speed. Further, Yogi has given stringent deadlines to departments.
Is Yogi's government going overboard with marketing it?
The government has decided that all official letters, hoardings etc would carry the logo, replacing Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay's centenary year symbol. This logo shows sadhus taking a holy dip in the Sangam against the backdrop of temples. It says "Sarvasidhipradh Kumbh," meaning Kumbh is the provider of all accomplishments. You decide if UP can afford to spend so much on marketing!
