Religious fervor is intensifying in Uttar Pradesh with Holi on the horizon, courtesy of a contentious missive from Falahari Maharaj to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. The vocal advocate in the Krishna Janmabhoomi-Shahi Idgah tussle wants Muslim shop owners sidelined from Holi’s color trade to preserve its untainted essence.
Detailing his fears, Maharaj pointed to the danger of sabotage, where colors could be laced with impurities like glass fragments by those opposed to Hindu customs. In a firm statement, he said, ‘Distancing the Muslim community from Hindu festival commerce will safeguard against any discord or injury to faith.’
His recommendations include no-go zones for Muslim stalls around prominent temples such as Janmabhoomi, insisting on Sanatan vendor exclusivity to counter alleged strategic encroachments.
A figure of ascetic resolve, Maharaj has forsaken grains for fruits over four years, vowing persistence until the site’s full reclamation.
The appeal has polarized discourse, pitting religious safeguarding against accusations of fostering division in India’s pluralistic fabric. Advocates see wisdom in caution, detractors a regression from harmonious coexistence. The administration remains mum, but the letter’s ripples suggest an impending uproar.