Why do millions of people, from entire Indian villages to urbane middle managers to foreign tourists, brave the crowds at the Kumbh Mela? During this year’s 55-day pilgrimage, to Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, an estimated 100 million Hindus and others are expected to take a holy dip in the Ganges River to wash away their sins. India Ink interviewed some of them.
Laliji, 80, from Chhapra, Bihar, was one among them. This is what she had to say.
Why did you come to the Kumbh Mela this year? Is it your first time?
I have come to the Kumbh before, but this is the first time my son brought me here. It was his way of showing his gratitude.
How have you found it so far?
I like it, especially since all my friends and fellow-villagers are here. We are celebrating it. The dip was memorable, though the water was cold. But I am enjoying.
Describe your journey to the Kumbh. Did you travel alone? How long did it take?
We took a bus from our house to the district headquarters, from where the village leaders had promised to arrange transport for us. But that seemed to be a crowded option, hence we decided to take another bus and come here.
Do you consider yourself a religious person?
I am very religious, and have brought up my eight sons that way. We are God-fearing people. We think twice before we can hurt anyone or anything. It’s not for nothing that we are respected in our village.
Who do you think is going to win the 2014 election?
I don’t understand politics. Last year, someone paid us to vote for them — we did.
India Ink: Laliji, the Octogenarian from Bihar
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India Ink: Laliji, the Octogenarian from Bihar
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India Ink: Laliji, the Octogenarian from Bihar
